1 1 2 Litre Grand Prix Racing

Bibliography, p.329 -- Glossary, p.328 -- Index.

Art of the Formula 1 Race Car brings a selection of these spectacular machines into the studio to expose not just the engineering brilliance of these cars, but also their inherent beauty.

“ In compiling this brief history of Grand Prix racing, along with descriptions of the more successful cars, I have limited myself to the period since World War II as the present day Grand Prix cars are mostly derived from the development and design of the early post war years. Although many ideas were taking shape in the period of the mid-thirties — such as the use of De Dion rear axle layouts, independent front suspension systems and hydraulic brakes — the main interest lay in engine design under a free ruling on capacity. It was not until about 1950 that a renaissance began in chassis design for Grand Prix cars and from then on a great deal of knowledge was gained; enough in fact, to enable roadholding to become a very exact science rather than a hit-and-miss affair. This development in the chassis and the search for improved road holding and higher cornering power was accentuated by the beginning of the era of unsupercharged racing, when power outputs were severely curtailed and speed had to be found by other means ...” (1959 - Denis Jenkinson)

Formula 1 racing—or F1, for short—is a popular racing sport enjoyed around the world. This book offers an insider’s look at F1 racing, covering the history of the sport, the excitement of Grand Prix races, and the stunning cars that make Formula 1 one of the top five spectator sports in the world. Readers will learn how points are calculated, how famous drivers have made history, and how they can get involved. This text also features a graphic organizer of the flags used in F1 racing, “Fast Fact” fact boxes, and informative sidebars.

Who has been the world’s greatest driver, and how do you prove it? With an eye for detail and a flair for storytelling, this book explores motor racing’s rich history in pursuit of the best driver the world has ever seen. Most enthusiasts have a strongly held opinion as to racing’s finest driver over the century of the motor car. By putting aside bias and personal opinion, this book’s exhaustively researched, results-based analysis provides a definitive answer through clear and logical evaluation. These carefully considered, significant statistics, when merged together, reveal with incisive objectivity motor sport’s greatest driver as well as the qualities that define greatness. Contentious? Possibly. Thought-provoking? Definitely. Author Angus Dougall captures many aspects of the motor racing world with a selection of revealing anecdotes on the highlights of racing’s biggest stars, together with stories that bring to life people, places, insider’s opinions of drivers, circuits, constructors, politics, insights, and comments on many of the drivers. For readers wishing to peruse the actual detail, there is a vast array of appendices displaying extensive race results lists, charts on driver performance, and car analysis. Motor racing fans, climb on board and hold on for an intriguing ride to the pinnacle of greatness.

An illustrated history of the development of front-engined racing Formula 1 cars. The author builds from the technical evolution of the cars, era by era. He accompanies this with insights into the rise and fall of the famous manufacturers whose creations were the ultimate expression of the motoring know-how of their day. Ludvigsen takes the reader from the early days of the Formula 1 Grand Prix car through to the 1950s, giving a glimpse at drivers, managers and engineers who contributed to the classic era of Grand Prix racing.