Subjects:  1. Automotive    2. Automotive - General    3. Automotive - History    4. Automotive - Pictorial    5. Transportation    6. Transportation / Automotive / General   

Reviews (1)

A Solid Buyer's Guide for the XK8/XKR Jaguar
John Blunsden, in his introduction, suggests this book is useful for prospective buyers of the Jaguar XK8 or XKR.If this was his purpose, then he has succeeded in giving a solid background on the car, so much so that I recently purchased one of these cars for myself.However, the book was published in 2000 and is somewhat dated because the new 2003 Jaguar XK8 and XKR's have evolved mechanically.For example, the 2003 XK8 and XKR feature a 6 speed automatic transmission, while in 2000 only 5 speeds were available.Nonetheless, for Jaguar lovers, I would highly recommend this book.Additionally, there is a fascinating section on the Jaguar F-Type, a truly beautiful prototype that Jaguar has not put into production. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Automotive - General    2. Transportation    3. Motor cars: general interest    4. Transportation / Automotive / General   

Reviews (1)

Excellent, but a little pricey
Goodfellow has done a great job of condensing the universe of Italian sports cars into this excellent, picture-laden book. Being an Alfa lover, I was glad to see they get star billing, along with, of course, Ferrari. But it's not just an Alfa/Ferrari lovefest, all are given attention, including many customs and one-offs. Many of the contemporary photos are very Italian-artsy, meaning a pretty model is often somewhere in the image, usually showing off at least a small portion of her underwear... It is not just a picture book, though, it describes the industry, design houses, social changes and other influences on Italian car design and manufacturing. It is broken down into eras, a fair way to cover the subject and mix up the car models. Many quotes from luminaries in the industry: Enzo Ferrari, Scaglietti, Tjaarda, etc. Some self-serving (Ferrari), but many were very frank about the highs and lows of the Italian (and worldwide) auto industry. This is a book every Italian (or just sports car) lover should have, it's a shame it's so expensive for only 156 pages. I guess it's the exoticness of the subject - if it was about NASCAR, it would be 300 pages and [cost much less]. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Automobile Racing    2. Automotive - History    3. Automotive - Pictorial    4. Foreign Automobiles - History    5. Transportation   

Reviews (10)

A fine book with the wrong title
I've purchased this book for the second time after my first copy (signed by Vic himself) was lost by a friend. As other reviewers have noted, the book might not deliver quite what one expects. The title may be at fault, and it was possibly chosen by the publisher more than the author. But if you read the book for its insights into 1960s and early 70s sports car racing and rallying, you won't be disappointed.Elford brings an unusual blend of technical expertise, first-hand knowledge, and good writing skills to the task. It can be inspirational to know that the source of this driving advice was the real deal, someone who thundered around the 'green hell' of the Nurburgring fast enough to win it twice, and who earned the nickname 'quick Vic' while dragging around the slowest car (Cooper) on the F1 grid.
Sad Disappointment
The title is a misrepresentation.This is not a handbook for driving a Porsche quickly or professionally.I bought this book because in 2 months I am going to drive my rear engined 993 on a F1 circuit.I have no circuit experience, and cannot get any coaching or any circuit experience in the country I live in.Since this is a rear engined car which I have little experience with I was particularly wanting some tips particular to rear engined cars.There is nothing in the whole book which is particular to driving Porsches or rear engined cars.The only reason I will not throw this book out is because it has some interesting 1960's and early 19970's Porsche racing pictures (poor quality black and white though).Also to be fair there are some good racing stories. He is undoubtedly a very impressive driver having been successful at the highest levels in rallying and sports prototype endurance racing.A better title would be "My Porsche Racing History".If you want a book on fast driving I would highly recommend Ross Bentley's "Speed Secrets" in place of this book.

Save your money
This is more of a "Vic is the greatest driver in the world book" than a "How To" book on high performance driving.If you're looking to read boastful stories about the author then this is the book for you.If, however, you're looking to learn about high performance driving look elsewhere. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Automobile driving    2. Automotive    3. Automotive - General    4. Driver Education    5. Foreign Automobiles - History    6. Motor Sports    7. Porsche automobiles    8. Sports    9. Sports & Recreation    10. Automotive technology    11. Road & motor vehicles: general interest    12. Transportation / Automotive / General   

Reviews (2)

A Not So Complete History
This book does cover the history from the start, but it lacks the details to call itself "The Complete Story". I don't know if it's been updated (I believe mine is a first printing) but it only covers to the mid 90's A general history
A very nice book about the general history of BMW. Most types are described, without being to technical. There is a tabel with specifications for every model since 1923 ... Read more

Subjects:  1. BMW motorcycle    2. History    3. Motorcycles    4. Motorcycles - History    5. Reference    6. Transportation    7. Automotive technology    8. Motorcycles: general interest    9. Transportation / Motorcycles / General   

Reviews (1)

An invaluable and profusely illustrated reference for any prospective buyer or collector of the Volkswagen Bus line of vehicles
Very highly recommended, The Essential Buyer's Guide: Volkswagen Bus by automotive experts Ken Cservenka and Richard Copping is an invaluable and profusely illustrated reference for any prospective buyer or collector of the Volkswagen Bus line of vehicles. Introducing the reader to an in-depth and extensively researched collection informatively covering every necessary detail of each model and year of the VW Bus, The Essential Buyer's Guide: Volkswagen Bus acts as an expansive and exclusive contribution and consumers reference. The Essential Buyer's Guide: Volkswagen Bus is very strongly recommended to all readers searching for a vivid and accurate compendium of the Volkswagon Bus and the how to guide for what to look for when buying, fixing, or collecting the popular vehicle.
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Subjects:  1. Automotive    2. Automotive - Buyer's Guides    3. Transportation    4. Motor cars: general interest    5. Transportation / Automotive / General   

Reviews (11)

Inside story of Rick Hendrick's Bribery Shenanigans
This was a terrific review of this book, found online:
Maybe Reviewers of this Book Should Tell the Truth
Michael Daly's review of this book (see below) is driven by his irrational hatred of Jeff Gordon.This book has way more to do with Japanese business methods than Rick Hendrick.Unfortunately, Daly cannot see the forest for the trees.Do yourself a favor.Read the book and not Daly's comments thereto.The former is much more enlightening.

Great Book!!
Arrogance and Accords is engaging, well written and at times very funny. The mainstream media missed this compelling corruption tale even though it was the biggest story in the auto industry during the 1990s. Read more

Subjects:  1. American Honda Motor Company    2. Automobile Industries (Economic Aspects)    3. Automobile dealers    4. Automobile industry and trade    5. Automotive    6. Automotive - Industry    7. Business & Economics    8. Business/Economics    9. Commercial crimes    10. Corrupt practices    11. History Of Specific Companies    12. Industries - General    13. United States    14. White Collar Crime   

Reviews (4)

This book teaches the basics and history of the 2002
I just finished this book and I am very pleased with it.I purchased this book from Amazon hoping to learn the history, year by year details, availibility, and possible modifications of the BMW 2002.My expectations were exceeded.The well divided chapters do a good job of explaining the details in plain English with a good number of pictures and illustrations.Just remember that "wings" actually means fender or quarter panel in the author's dialect.There is a good section on how to properly approach a restoration project with plenty of pictures.
Great book!
Hi all, Provided some help in buying one, but . . .
I'm looking to buy a 2002 and found some help in reading this book. Nevertheless, there is a lot of detail here that may be of some interest to enthusiasts, but was a little more than a novice like myself needs to know.Utlimately, the book is what it promises to be, "a comprehensiveguide". ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Automotive    2. Automotive - General    3. Transportation    4. Automotive technology    5. Road & motor vehicles: general interest    6. Transportation / Automotive / General   

Subjects:  1. Automotive    2. Automotive - History    3. Transportation    4. Motor cars: general interest    5. Transportation / Automotive / General   

Subjects:  1. 20th century    2. Antique and classic cars    3. Automobile Racing    4. Automobiles, Racing    5. Automotive    6. Automotive - Antique & Classic    7. Automotive - General    8. Europe - General    9. Foreign Automobiles - History    10. General    11. History    12. Mercedes automobile    13. Mercedes automobiles    14. Transportation    15. Car racing    16. Europe    17. History of specific subjects    18. Motor cars: general interest    19. c 1900 - c 1914   

Reviews (12)

Suppliment with other books on motorcycling proficiency
I think "Ride Hard Ride Smart" gets too caught up in the dangers of riding. It seems to be more of a warning book than a guide book as evidenced by its focus on the Hurt Report. Admirably, Hahn set out to alert his readers how to identify, avoid and manage the dangers of motorcycling. But mastering the sport takes much more than that, such as understanding the machine's physics and good riding techniques so that actual dangers can be handled in real time. Hahn, in my opinion, seems to feel that scaring a motorcyclist somehow motivates the motorcyclist to ride skillfully, yet fails to discuss all relevant skills.
Good AdviseHard Read
Pat Hahn, has some great advise in this book and I learned a lot from it. However, it is probably the most painfully dull read I have read in years. For every two pages of hard to read material you get about one or two sentences of true gems.
Excellent read.Full of good information and humor.I'm a safer rider now.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book.Hahn has an excellent wit and shares a wealth of knowledge about riding safely.I read the entire book the first night I had it.The book begins by illustrating some of the major hazards that motorcyclists face on the road, and then gives great advice for avoiding those hazards and for overall safe and enjoyable riding.If you want to learn about smart and safe riding in a fun and informative way, then this book is for you.It is well worth reading and re-reading. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Automotive    2. Automotive - Repair & Maintenance    3. Motorcycles - General    4. Motorcycles - Repair & Maintenance    5. Motorcycling    6. Motorcycling accidents    7. Prevention    8. Safety measures    9. Traffic safety    10. Transportation    11. Transportation / Motorcycles / Repair & Maintenance   

Subjects:  1. Automobile industry and trade    2. Business / Economics / Finance    3. Business/Economics    4. General    5. Honda of America Mfg    6. Japan    7. Motorcycle industry    8. United States   

Subjects:  1. Automotive    2. Automotive - Foreign - General    3. Do-It-Yourself    4. Domestic Automobiles - History   

Reviews (1)

Pictorial splendor
Ludvigsen provides many rarely seen photos of the early 550 Spyder together in one book. The captions are brief but give enough info to satisfy the photos explanation. A great photo resource for anyone wanting to familiarize themself with early Porsche 550 Spyders. A must have for anybody who loves the lines of the early 550 Porsche Spyders. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Automotive - General    2. Automotive - History    3. History    4. Porsche automobiles    5. Transportation    6. Transportation / Automotive / General   

Reviews (1)

Ready For Prometime
NIKKI DROVE ME TO KENNEDY AIRPORT LAST YEAR AND I READ ALL THE EXCERPS - I WAS OUT OF BREATH WITH LAUGHTER (ALMOST CONSIDERED CANCELLING MY TICKETS AND OPTING FOR A QUICK RETURN HOME JUST SO I COULD READ HIS OTHER NOTES!)'LENO', 'LETTERMAN' . . . HE'S READY FOR PRIMETIME! --Kathleen Birnbaum ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Biography & Autobiography    2. Biography/Autobiography    3. Personal Memoirs    4. Biography & Autobiography / General    5. New York    6. Nicky Testaforte, Limo, Sex, New York City, NYC    7. Roadcraft, driving & the Highway Code   

Subjects:  1. Automobile industry and trade    2. Automobiles    3. Biography/Autobiography    4. Design and construction    5. Foreign Automobiles - History    6. Great Britain    7. History    8. Road & motor vehicles: general interest    9. Road vehicle manufacturing industry   

Reviews (1)

An excellent text and "must have" for Driver Ed students!
As the preface says, "this book speaks to you, not at you".Driving is a challenge and this text simplifies the learning to a level that does not intimidate the beginner driver. Whether you're a teen or an adult needing "brush up tips", this book is an excellent investment.Each chapter has a separate "Objectives" page, a "Key Terms" page, self tests, chapter reviews-great for the classroom!Read more

Subjects:  1. Automobile driving    2. Automotive    3. Automotive - General    4. Business & Economics    5. Career/Job    6. Careers - General    7. Counseling - Vocational Guidance    8. Driver Education    9. Drivers' licenses    10. Education / Driver Education    11. Roadcraft, driving & the Highway Code   

Reviews (10)

Essential Modern Middle Ground Book
This is NOT the foundation book for MGB maintenance and repair.That honor is still held by the Haynes MGB 1962 thru 1980 book published in the 1980's and often delivered as part of the "kit" to anyone buying an original MGB, as I just did.
Its a good book, but not a great book, but still a must have.
There is a lot of really good information in the book that is not in the workshop manuals.However, there is not a lot of explanation of the processes for some of the jobs in the book.Nevertheless, its still the best book of its kind.What I would like to seel is three or four more complete books covering separate phases of restoration in greater detail.Also, more coverage of the difference between different years would be great.

MGB Restoration
I've owned the same MG since '78 and it was beginning to show it.This manual has enlightened me on what it's going to take to bring it back to original condition. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Automotive - Customizing    2. Automotive - Domestic - General    3. Automotive - Repair & Maintenance    4. Foreign Automobiles - History    5. Transportation   

Reviews (11)

A joyride with a serious message
A fun read.Follow the author as she frees herself from fear and finds friendship with an unlikely prospect.Most important, you will gain insight into your own driving skills and appreciate the importance of safe driving.Parents spend a fortune on sports for their kids, but they'd be wiser to make sure their children learn to drive safely.This book has a light side - e.g., fashion tips for driving - but it has a serious message.
More pretentious than dull, or vice versa?
It's hard to decide what's worse about this book: the pretentiousness of the author or the dullness of the vignettes that reveal it.
Just didn't get it!
This seems to be a book mainly about a "nonrelationship" between a manly driving instructor and a very girly middle aged woman.Some of the car information is mildly interesting, but the endless analysis of their lack of a real relationship is just plain boring.It is also difficult to understand how the mother of a nine year old would be willing to risk her life on the back of a motorcycle.Guess it takes all kinds! ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Automobile driver education    2. Automobile driver education teachers    3. Biography & Autobiography    4. Biography / Autobiography    5. Biography/Autobiography    6. Collins, Amy Fine    7. Friends and associates    8. General    9. Personal Memoirs    10. Psychological aspects    11. United States    12. Women automobile drivers    13. Biography & Autobiography / General    14. Roadcraft, driving & the Highway Code   

Subjects:  1. Automotive    2. Automotive - Foreign - History    3. Automotive - History    4. Automotive - Pictorial    5. Foreign Automobiles - History    6. Transportation    7. Citroen automobile    8. Motor cars: general interest    9. Photographs: collections    10. Social history    11. Transportation / General