Classic British Cars 1911–1986 - Ian Ward

Classic cars do not come in a particular shape and size. They are perhaps best defined as the models that have influenced motoring history and those whose legend has endured, and the British motor industry has produced many of the greatest of these models. This gloriously illustrated book looks at what made these cars iconic – how they came to be and how they made their mark. The first proper sports car was the Prince Henry Vauxhall of 1910, while it was Sir Herbert Austin whose little Seven made motoring affordable for millions in the 1920s. Jaguar’s XK120 of 1948 brought astonishing speed and elegance at low cost, and Sir Alec Issigonis famously turned the motoring world on its head when he designed the legendary Mini. These and many other classic cars and their manufacturers are profiled in this book. The story of each model, from its design and development all the way through to its production is discussed alongside the fortunes of its manufacturing company. Specification panels for a representative model details key features including engine type, power and top speed. With the aid of specially commissioned photographs, this unique selection provides a snapshot of Britain’s motoring story. For anyone fascinated by the world’s most wonderful cars, this book is a must. Celebrating 75 years of British motor car design and production, from Vauxhall’s Prince Henry 9 in 1911 to the TVR S of 1986, the book features famous marques from the major British manufacturers including Aston Martin, Bentley, Bristol, Jaguar, MG, Morgan, Rolls-Royce, Triumph, and many more. Technical panels give detailed specifications for each marque, including engine type, power, stroke, capacity, transmission, wheelbase and top speed. Gloriously illustrated with more than 500 specially commissioned photographs.