Essential Reading

Here is a selection of books I have collected on Lotus and Caterham Sevens and other motoring subjects.


The Classic Motor-racing Circuits of Europe  

This exciting new book provides readers with a detailed study of some of Europe's most famous motor racing circuits, bringing the history of these spectacular venues to life. The circuits covered include Brooklands, Goodwood, Silverstone, Le Mans, Reims, Hockenheim, Nurburgring, Imola, Monza and Monaco/Monte Carlo Spa. Covering everything from the history, origin and development of each track, to the famous drivers who took to the tarmac and the amazing cars they drove in; both historic and contemporary, this is a must have read for every motor racing fan. Other areas examined include significant events and famous races that took place at each site, as well as a brief look at the many teams which performed there. Written by leading motor sport historian David Venables, this fantastic new book is a celebration of these magnificent sporting venues and the exhilarating feast of men and machines which have entertained enthusiasts for decades. Fully illustrated throughout with a variety of photographs, drawings anand detailed diagrams showing the development of the circuits over the years, this is the book that motor racing enthusiasts have been waiting for!
(ISBN-10: 0711034818 ISBN-13: 978-0711034815)

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  Racing Colours: British Racing Green

The great cars, drivers and races from the top motor-sporting nations form the theme of this spectacular new series of magnificently illustrated volumes. Each country boasts its bloodlines, companies, engineers, executives and enthusiasts whose powerful competitive spirit and dauntless courage drives them to dominate in motor racing. In this dramatic first volume, leading experts of British motor racing reveal the amazing stories behind their successes and failures, the great classic endurance races and Grand Prix contests in which they dominated or faced disaster. Motor racing, which has no equal in the ecstasy of victory and agony of defeat, comes vividly to life in the colourful pages of these magnificent books. It took Britain a few years to get to grips with first-rank motor racing. Apart from Sunbeam's Grand Prix success in the 1920s, it had to be content with the dramatic exploits of Bentley at Le Mans and in the next decade with victories by MG, Austin, ERA, Aston Martin, Riley and Lagonda as well as star drivers Tim Birkin, Malcolm Campbell and Richard Seaman. Only after World War II, as David Venables so dramatically portrays, did Britain get the hang of Formula 1 racing. Once it did, there was no stopping British cars and drivers. Momentous breakthroughs came in the 1950s with Connaught, Vanwall and BRM, followed by the rear-engined revolution led by Cooper and Lotus. Engines from Coventry Climax and then Cosworth sat behind great champions including Stirling Moss, Mike Hawthorn, Jim Clark, Graham Hill, John Surtees and Jackie Stewart. Meanwhile Jaguar and Aston Martin flew the Union Jack with pride at Le Mans. A reborn Donington joined Goodwood, Silverstone and Brands Hatch as the UK s classic tracks. Thrusting teams like Williams, Tyrrell, McLaren and Brabham joined Lotus at the forefront of Grand Prix racing with the likes of James Hunt, Damon Hill, Jenson Button and Lewis Hamilton at their wheels. British expertise even prevailed at Indianapolis with wins for Lotus, Lola and March. Between these covers these men and their machines come colourfully to life in authoritative text, rare illustrations from the world-renowned Ludvigsen Library and striking portraits of great racing cars specially commissioned for this book.
(ISBN-10: 0711033323 - ISBN-13: 978-0711033320)

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Race & Trackday Driving Techniques (Speedpro Series)  

A complete reference and learning tool for people taking to the circuit in their cars, either for the first time or as a seasoned campaigner. This book is designed to take the reader on a journey of discovery as you unlock the secrets of speed, from the basic principles through to advanced techniques and individual circuit tricks. Designed with learning in mind, the book shows not only what to do to go faster, but also why these techniques work. Exiting the corner the car dances on the edge of adhesion as it brushes up against the dirt on the edge of the kerb. You are tough on the throttle and accelerating up the straight, there is no way you could have made that corner any faster...or is there? Inside Race & Trackday Driving Techniques you will find all the secrets, skills and methods that will see your lap times tumble. The book covers everything from the fundamental principles through to individual techniques for specific corners, whilst also helping you analyse what you can do off the track to improve your performance when you are on it. You will also discover why techniques work, to give you a greater understanding of the process of driving faster from why the Traction Circle is only really relevant to the chassis engineer rather than the driver, through to why trail braking works on one corner and not another, amongst many other principles. Also features a corner-by-corner guide to some of the UK's best circuits, and a Further skills section to expand your performance driving repertoire with skills such as drifting and J-turns. Features: * Teaches skills from basics through to advanced techniques of track driving * Covers all aspects of performance driving, including race techniques * Contains up-to-date circuit guides * Techniques taught allow the student to progress on their own * Information suitable to all levels of experience * Clear and detailed descriptions of why techniques work * Analyses mental preparation * Covers nutrition and fitness * Includes wet weather driving techniques * Includes further skills such as drifting and J-turns
David Hornsey is an experienced racing driver and instructor, having competed in many series since first getting behind the wheel in 1995. An MSA qualified instructor of motorsport since 1999, he has worked with many racing schools and manufacturers, including Porsche GB and Ferrari Maserati (UK) Ltd., and is currently one of the small number of handpicked instructors working for Aston Martin on its world-wide driving events team. He has also instructed track day and race drivers from club level through to Formula One.
(ISBN-10: 184584355X ISBN-13: 978-1845843557)

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     Derek Bell: My Racing Life

Derek Bell has become one of motor racing's 'national treasures'. He is best known as one of the world's finest ever endurance sports car drivers, winning Le Mans five times and the Daytona 24 Hours three times, as well as numerous other significant sports car races. This completely new and updated edition of his autobiography celebrates the superb motor racing career of one of Britain's most popular racing drivers.
Derek Bell has written this book in collaboration with Alan Henry, one of motorsport's most respected journalists, and a long-time editor of Autocourse. Bell and Henry live in Florida and Essex respectively.
(ISBN-10: 0857330888 - ISBN-13: 978-0857330888)

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Motor Racing at Crystal Palace by Sam Collins  

Crystal Palace, London's own circuit, has recently been found to be one of the oldest Motor Racing venues in the world - this is its story. Focusing on the devlopment of the venue over the years and its untimely demise. Many rare and even unseen photos are included. Features: The History of one of Britains oldest race circuits. Many rare / unseen photographs. Coverage on the very early Meetings 1899 - 1902. Coverage of the final speed events 1997 - 2001. Information on events that took place after the circuits closure. The circuit seen as it is today. Potential future plans for the venue. A978-0857330888 much needed update on the tracks history. Written by a local enthusiast. List of Events 1899 - 2001. (ISBN-10: 1904788343 - ISBN-13: 978-1904788348)

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   Brighton National Speed Trials In the 1960's, 1970's and 1980's by Tony Gardiner

During the 1970s, Brands Hatch was the busiest motor racing circuit in the world. Using previously unpublished photographs and on-the-spot accounts of events, this volume provides a personal view of the venue's events during its heyday and paints an affectionate picture of British motor racing at its very best. An evocative look back at the unique Brighton Speed Trials, first run in 1905. Captures the flavour and feel of one of Britain's oldest motor sports events. Over 150 previously unpublished photographs of cars and motorcycles chronicle the event from the 60s through to the mid-80s.
(ISBN-10: 1903706882 - ISBN-13: 978-1903706886)

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Hillclimbing & Sprinting - The Essential Manual by Phil Short  

Hillclimbing & Sprinting collectively known as Speed Eventing is one of the most popular ways of getting into UK motor sport. The events are accessible, straightforward & inexpensive, yet are held in an informal, friendly but competitive atmosphere. Some 400 such events take place in the UK each year, with on average more than 100 competitors on each. This book shows competitors how to get started and how to improve their skills, together with where to find the events and detailed driving advice on the top courses. There is even advice on trailers do you need one? The authors have interviewed a wide range of drivers, from the Clubman who drives to and from events, through mid-range competitors, including a lady, a disabled driver and an octogenarian, right up to the current hillclimb champion, as well as some of the many officials who make this sport possible. This title offers a veritable gold mine of information.
(ISBN-10: 1845841034 - ISBN-13: 978-1845841034)

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   Murray Walker Scrapbook by Murray Walker & Philip Porter

Murray Walker is a legend. In the fast-paced, action-packed and often ruthless world of motor sport he is a constant. More famous than many of the drivers on whom he commentates, his knowledge and evident enthusiasm is a beacon for millions of fans. Beautifully designed and packed with over 500 personal images, this is a revealing insight into Murray's life from childhood to the present day.
(ISBN-10: 0955656451 & ISBN-13: 978-0955656453)

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   Brands Hatch: The Definitive History of Britain's Best-loved Motor Racing Circuit by Chas Parker

This book features a foreword by Bernie Ecclestone. The Brands Hatch circuit in Kent is a motorsport mecca, and was once the busiest motorsport venue in the world. Scene of many classic Formula One and sports car races, as well as numerous other international, national and club events, the circuit is currently undergoing a renaissance under the ownership of Jonathan Palmer's MotorSport Vision company. Here is the definitive history of Brands Hatch, featuring the events, cars, motorcycles and characters that have made it Britain's best-loved motor racing circuit.   (ISBN-10: 1844253341 & ISBN-13: 978-1844253340 )

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   Graham Hill Scrapbook 1929-1966 by Phillip Porter

Graham Hill (1929-1975) is the only driver to have won motor racing's triple crown: the World Championship, the Indianapolis 500 and the Le Mans 24-Hour race. "The Graham Hill Scrapbook 1929-66" charts the rise of a motor-racing legend. It follows Hill from his childhood, through his humble beginnings as an apprentice and unpaid mechanic, to the heights of World Championship fame. This book concludes in 1966 with Hill's superb Indianapolis win. More than a biography, the "Graham Hill Scrapbook" is a highly personal account of the courage and single-minded determination required to build a career in motor racing. It is made all the more enjoyable by being permeated with Hill's great personal charm and beguiling sense of fun. This beautifully designed and presented, large format work is entirely based upon Hill's personal scrapbooks, keep-sakes, press-cuttings and recorded views of his life in racing. It is enriched throughout by Hill's own reminiscences, plus those of his family, colleagues and friends. The work is written by Philip Porter, the Montagu Trophy-winning author of over twenty-five books including the "Stirling Moss Scrapbook 1955" and "Jaguar Scrapbook"..   (ISBN-10: 0955006864 & ISBN-13: 978-0955006869 )

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   Autodrome: The Lost Race Circuits of Europe by S.S. Collins

Around Europe lie a number of long forgotten monuments, windswept and abandoned, the derelict buildings and crumbling tarmac are all that remain of once great motor racing circuits. From the great speed bowls of Monza and Brooklands, to the parkland of Crystal Palace. All photographed as they are now, but remembered in their prime. Nine of Europe's greatest abandoned circuits recalled and revisited;Previously forgotten events remembered;Track diagrams help chart the history of the autodromes;Many unique and unpublished period photos, as well as program covers and event posters;S.S.Collins' writing captures the spirit of these forgotten places;Photography by Gavin D.Ireland evokes the faded glory of the 'lost circuits'.   (ISBN-10: 1904788319 & ISBN-13: 978-1904788317)

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   Classic Motorsport Routes by Richard Meaden

This is a spectacular book guiding you through the circuits, roads and tracks that have helped shape more than a century of motorsport. From the great road races of the Mille Miglia and the Targa Florio, to the gruelling hillclimb of the legendary Pikes Peak in the heart of America - "Classic Motorsport Routes" guides you through some of the most spectacular and legendary routes that you can drive today. Top motoring writer Richard Meaden of "Evo" magazine, takes you through thirty evocative routes across four continents. You will discover breathtaking scenery including the majestic Rocky Mountains in North America, to the haunting pine forests of Northern Europe, and the dusty, sun-baked villages of Sicily. "Classic Motorsport Routes" is beautifully illustrated in full colour, with each route offering a detailed, high-quality map. Including some of the great motor racing circuits of the past, all are now public roads, so there's nothing to stop you getting out there and driving them yourself...   (ISBN:978-0-7495-5225-1)

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On the Road: Driving Adventures, Pleasures and Discoveries by Peter Schindler  

There are a million books about cars, but none about driving, until now: "On the Road" unashamedly celebrates the pleasures of driving. "On the Road" is full of stunning photographs of magnificent roads, breath-taking landscapes and people at one with their cars. The book is about driving experiences around the world, told by a man who has had a life-long passion for driving. "On the Road" takes the reader on a journey, discovering how beautiful and refreshing driving, and life, can be. (ISBN:988-98256-1-9)

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   Restoration, Preparation, Maintenance by Tony Weale

Tony Weale is the specialist for the 7. He covers every aspect of restoration, tuning, engine options and parts compatibility. Complete with all the necessary data on servicing schedules, engine options and unit compatibility. Filled with over 250 illustrations and comprehensive technical diagrams. A must for the owner!  (ISBN:1-85532-153-X)

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Lotus Seven by Jeremy Coulter  

A history of the Lotus Seven, giving a flavour of the enthusiasm, excitement and humour associated with this 'Legend in it's own Lifetime'.  (ISBN:0-94798-171-3)

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   Caterham Sevens by Chris Rees

The official story of a unique British sports car. The fascinating story which traces the Seven's birth, rebirth, development and international racing records.  (ISBN:0-94798-197-7)

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Racers for the Road by John Tipler  

This book chronicles the saga of the Lotus Seven including the series 2 and 3 during the 1960s - when it won fame in "The Prisoner" TV series. John Tipler shows how the various structural components of the car are manufactured and interviews key figures in the Seven's evolution. He also looks at the eventful history of the Seven in club racing and takes the reader through the current UK racing scene.  (ISBN:1-85223-858-5)

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   The Magnificent 7 by Chris Rees

A guide to all the models of the Lotus and Caterham Seven, from 1957 to 2001. It presents a full model listing for each of the cars, from the Lotus Seven S1 Ford, also known as 7F, through to the Caterham Blackbird and Caterham Autosport 50th. It covers the specification and driving impressions for each of the Lotus and Caterham Sevens, together with a guide to purchase and restoration, a summary of the main developments and useful contacts.  (ISBN:1-85960-848-5)

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Motor Racing Circuits in England: Then & Now by Peter Swinger  

From the earliest days of the internal combustion engine there has been an imperative to compete vehicles both in terms of speed and endurance. Although the Formula One world championship is the pinnacle of motor sport, at a lesser level there is a vast network of circuits at which competitive motor racing takes place every weekend from spring to autumn. In this book, Peter Swinger has gathered together a fascinating selection of photographs and memorabilia to illustrate the changing face of motorsport circuits in Britain from the earliest days of competitive motor racing at the start of the 20th century to the present day. Many of the circuits, such as Brooklands, Silverstone, Brands Hatch and Donington Park, are amongst the best-known names in sport and although some, such as Brooklands, are now but memories in sporting terms, other still draw enthusiasts through their gates in huge numbers for car or bike racing. Fans of the country’s less well known motor racing venues will also not be disappointed as smaller circuits such as Davidstow, Debden and Lulsgate are included in this book. For all those interested in motor racing, this book is a fascinating portrait of the huge changes that have taken place in the sport since its earliest days a century ago as well as a nostalgic look back at classic motor racing memories.  (ISBN:0-7110-2796-X)

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   Track Day Driver's Guide by Art Markus

Speed cameras and traffic calming devices have forced drivers of high performance cars off the road and on to purpose-built test tracks. This book explains how to get the best out of track days through skilled driving and careful car preparation. Whether the driver is a track day virgin or a veteran, and whether he or she drives a standard road car or one fully prepared to competition specification, they should find there is much to be learned within these pages. This includes how to prepare the car - and oneself - for the first track day; how to optimise the seating position; how to choose and use safety equipment; what can be done to improve the performance of the car; track day etiquette; and much more besides.  (ISBN:1-899870598)

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Going Faster! Mastering the Art of Race Driving from The Skip Barber Racing School  

Going Faster! is the first book on race driving to do what none of the others can: it reveals the collective wisdom Skip Barber Racing School instructors have accumulated over the past 25 years. It includes invaluable driver insights, detailed diagrams and the latest techniques for race data analysis. It contains the fundamentals of the racing line, corner-exit speed and braking; mastering car control for maximum speed; real-time data acquisition using the MRG/Skip Barber Performance Monitor to show how the fastest drivers reduce lap times; accurate diagrams of real race tracks, demonstrating the techniques used in real-world racing; in-depth analysis of the physical skills: pedal modulation, gear changing, steering input, etc and how specific race cars handle, from Formula Dodge and Showroom Stock to Indy Cars, including tyre choices, chassis adjustments and driving modifications. Going Faster! is the race-driving bible for the active race driver, the racer-to-be, and the auto-racing fan who wants to learn what really makes the difference between first and second place.  (ISBN:0-8376-0226-9)

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   The Technique of Motor Racing by Piero Taruffi

In his prophetic foreword to the Technique of Motor Racing, Fangio anticipates the importance Piero Taruffi’s book would have been for a generation of new drivers. Trained as both a racing driver and an industrial engineer, Taruffi provides a unique perspective on the art and science of motor racing. He drove for the works teams of Ferrari, Maserati, Alfa Romeo, Mercedes-Benz, and others, in a career that spanned over 25 years and was crowned by his victory in the 1957 Mille Miglia. The Technique of Motor Racing was first published in 1959 and has become the standard by which other driving texts are measured.  (ISBN:0-8376-0228-9)

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Motor Racing at Brands Hatch in the Seventies by Chas Parker  

During the 1970s, Brands Hatch was the busiest motor racing circuit in the world. Using previously unpublished photographs and on-the-spot accounts of events, this book provides a personal view of the venue's events during its heyday, and paints an affectionate picture of British motor racing at its very best. It is the latest title in the sporting nostalgia series "Those Were The Days...". A spectator's, rather than a competitor's view of Brands Hatch, with personal reminiscences and anecdotes. It features a history of Brands Hatch racetrack during its heyday, with atmospheric accounts of the main races of the period. All the photographs in the book are previously unpublished.   (ISBN:1-904788-06-8)

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   Goodwood Festival of Speed by Richard Sutton

A celebration in words and pictures of the world’s biggest and most diverse classic motor sports event. Featuring over 600 photographs -- many exclusive to the Goodwood collection -- and with contributions from a host of leading motor sport writers (including an introduction by Murray Walker), fans from all over the world can indulge themselves in this key book on this most cherished occasion in sport.   (ISBN:0-00718235-X)

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Roadcraft is the handbook for police driver training and other advanced drivers concerned about safety. Roadcraft has been designed to include current best practice in police driving and learning design. It has been prepared under the guidance of a working group of experienced police driving instructors who have consulted widely with police and civilian experts. Roadcraft is essential for any driver who wishes to improve their driving skills and safety record. It also provides a valuable resource for driving instructors who wish to raise driving standards.  (ISBN:0-11-340858-7)

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