Italian Auto Legends: Classics of Style and Design
Merrell 2006
Italian car design engenders a unique sense of passion in drivers and car enthusiasts everywhere. Its great names - Alfa Romeo, Ferrari, Lamborghini, Lancia, Maserati - are associated with some of the most charismatic and exciting cars ever made and resonate the world over. This lavishly illustrated book brings together more than fifty-five of the most important Italian cars designed from the early twentieth century to the present day. Each model - from the Fiat 130HP, which set a precedent in 1907 for Italian success in grand-prix racing, to the Maserati MC12 of 2004, which has a top speed of 330 kph (205 mph) - represents a key moment in Italian car design. Beginning with an introduction that describes the epic history of Italian motoring and the development of its great marques, the book goes on to examine each car's history, design and performance. Accompanying each model's description are unparalleled photographs by one of the world's top car photographers, including exterior shots from every viewpoint and close-ups of the interior and engine. Supporting this stunning collection of cars are biographies of all the key designers, a full technical glossary and details of museums and other collections worldwide where the cars may be seen. With its superb presentation of many of the most seductive and exhilarating cars ever made, this book is the definitive testament to the original car-styling 'capital' of the world.
