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Below are our latest testimonials, reviews, and book news which we are delighted to share with you.

Thank you for your comments.

'Again and again, I’m so positively impressed by the quality of your books and of your service.

I’ve been involved in wholesale and retail of books one way or the other since 1994, and in my opinion, Porter Press is the benchmark for the industry.' Robert Heynert, VHT Europe

 

Original E-type - Restorers' and enthusiasts' guide to 3.8, 4.2 and V12

5 ★ A must have ! Great presentation, great content pictural and text. I recommend it to a French friend Bruno and he bought it within the minute! Thanks Malcolm, fantastic job! Thierry

5 ★
Excellent, it's a must. Joel D.

Camel Trophy - The Definitive History

5 ★
Excellent service and product

Being an avid Camel Trophy enthusiast and participant, this book captures the spirit and camaraderie of this great adventure. It has reignited many great experiences and it will always remain a unique event in its relatively brief existence that captures the diversity of participants and the remote and wonderful destinations travelled. Klaus H. 

5 ★
A must for Land Rover adventure enthusiasts

From ordering the book, being kept informed of print and delivery timescales to receiving it has been very pleasurable. The book arrived well packaged and is an excellent read! Jonathan C.

Ultimate Ferrari 250 GTO

'It took me several weeks to decide whether to buy the new, two-volume GTO magnum opus by @porterpressinternational or not. Because its price is no chicken-feed as the saying goes. And I have several GTO books in my collection, already. But in the end, I couldn't resist, especially after watching Philip Porter's video presenting the book.

'As I hold my copy from @disch.fachbuchhandlung in my hands now, I can report: I made exactly the right decision!

'The first thing which struck me by unwrapping the parcel was the size of the books, which is larger than expected. Thus, they give way to many beautiful, large-size, full-page shots of the GTO - contemporary images as well as current ones.

'And, indeed, as promised by the publisher, there is a plethora of images which I haven't seen before.

'My expertise about the GTO does not go far enough to judge on the accuracy of the facts in detail, and, of course, I hadn't got time to read through the work in depth, yet. But at first and second sight, it appears to have been extremely
well researched with numerous tables.

'The quality of the thick paper and the layout as well as the overall finish are excellent. Maybe, only maybe, the slipcase is a little bit too flimsy for these heavy books. But that is really just a minor notice.

'What is difficult to imagine is that there will be a further 250 GTO book in the future, because for the time being, really everything seems to have been said now about this great car (of course, not by anyone, as a German joke goes).

'Maybe, we will get an update in ten years what has happened to the GTO cars in the meantime in classic car racing and in regard to their ownership. @porterpressinternational: Please publish a third book then together with a new slipcase for three books. It wouldn't take me weeks that time to order it.' Sven 

 

'You know when you've got something special (5 ★)

'I confess. I have looked at both books in the set, but not read them cover to cover. Yet. This was a work I knew had to be obtained since the Ferrari 250 GTO - those who are for and those who are against - know this was a seminal racer and this publication is simply amazing. It conveys the 100 per cent dedication to creating a racing machine where every single photograph reveals a bit more of the story. The 250 GTO development process - taking known good elements and combining them in a slightly different way such as the crucial use of dry sump lubrication to ensure minimum engine height along with health during high latteral acceleration - is completed with classic Italian approach to build. The prototype vehicle skin is barely finished as testing commences, it was not painted for some time, and holes appeared randomly. I got to see several Aston Martin DB4 GT Zagatos whilst at Newport Pagnell, and reflected on the evolution from the normal Touring bodied DB4. The DB4 GT Zagato, for all it's brilliance, was never in contention with 250 GTO. This book captures why, for all its faults, it remains an iconic racing car after 60 years. It's a big investment but worth every single penny.' Andrew M. 

 

 

The Light Car Company Rocket - The Singular Vision of Two Men

'One of the very elite Clubs of Rocket owners author Clive Neville finished writing this book as long ago as 2011 but only recently completed the project, such was the scale of the task. With invaluable contributions from both Craft and Murray, this really does go into every nut and bolt of the amazing story from start to finish. Murray even granted unlimited access to his personal archive of notes pictures and drawings, so everything is explained in great detail and will appeal to fans of both the car and superb engineering.' DC, Classic & Sports Car

 

'This is a huge and sumptuous volume, ten years in the making, detailing Gordon Murray and Chris Craft's project to build another completely uncompromised road car. The problem is, after reading this, you'll want one...' Classic Cars Magazine

 

'...the book would make a great Christmas present for any enthusiast - it is well written and refreshingly candid about the commercial challenges - recommended.' Race Car

 

(5 ★)

The book is a work of love of two men to chart the story of the Light Car company and its Gordon Murray designed car the Rocket. Fabulous pictures and layout with lots of details and stories that stick in ones mind. Don H.

 

...'as an ultimate reference work, with detailed listings of almost every Rocket produced, it is unparalleled. Ian Robertson, b-c-ing-u.com

 

 

JCB Scrapbook

Excellent Service 'Great service ordered my Book and had it delivered to Ireland within a few days. Thanks.' Enda K.

 

...'presented in a lively way that should appeal to anyone from real enthusiasts to those with just a casual interest in JCB. I'm a relatively recent enthusiast but I think I can safely say you won't be disappointed if you find this in your Christmas stocking - in fact your family will probably regret it as you'll spend the rest of the holiday reading it.' Malcolm McKay, Vintage JCB Machines

 

Above: Best of Britain, March 2021

 

'Excellent book, fascinating collection of facts, figures, adverts, reports and much more stretching over 143 pages. It easily surpassed my expectations. Would thoroughly recommend it to anyone with an interest in JCB and their products.' Richard T. (5 ★)

 

'Excellent  (5 ★)

'The book was delivered quickly and came very well packaged via Royal Mail. I have just had a quick look at it but it will appeal to anyone with an interest in JCB.' George M.

 

https://lacar.com/book-review-jcb-scrapbook/

'Beautifully laid out and (more than) fully-illustrated, the term “Scrapbook” seems here a bit too easy-going for the sort of highly visual and informative history of one of the World’s great heavy equipment companies found printed in this celebration of its silver anniversary on the 23 of October, 2020.' DS

 

E-type Definitive History - (Second Edition). (5 ★)

  

Ferrari 250 GTE - The family car that funded the racing  (5 ★)

'Excellent in every respect 

'Great book about a car which had to stay in the shadows of famous Ferrari Berlinettas much too long. David Wheeler has assembled an impressive amount of information, documents and historical and current pictures. It is a pleasure to read and look through. And it is the benchmark for future books on the Ferrari topic.' Sven K.

 

'David Wheeler is a friend of mine so I may be a bit biased. The 250 GTE Book is one of the best Ferrari books about a single model that I own. David's extensive history, photographs and technical information, along with individual stories of the many 250 GTE owners that he knows, makes this particular book one of the must read, must own books for any Ferrari enthusiast.' Richard Garre.

 

250GTE Book: a labour of love (5 ★)

 

'Such a great Book & well done David (5 ★)

'I have to say David and his team have done a epic job on this book, such interesting information and a great read. Regards, Sasso Automotive'

 

Such a great Book & well done David (5 ★)

 

' Excellent reference book (5 ★)

'I really enjoyed this book. The author is clearly a expert and he shares his knowledge of this unique car. The book tells the whole history of 250 GTE. It provides technical data regarding the three series over the years. It contains nice and often unique pictures and documents from private collections. It is an excellent reference book, beautifully illustrated and it provides a very comprehensive description of the 250 GTE story. It has served me well and is a must have for all Ferrari fans!' Bobex.com

 

'A wonderful purchase and a superb well written book about the GTE models. Well done David and Porter Press. Kind regards, Terry.' (5 ★)

 

'Very positive (5 ★)

'The book arrived very promptly. It is well written and full of interesting information. As a GTE owner it is fascinating. Don M.

 

'Best coffee table book ever! (5 ★)

'Incredible documentation of a beautiful Ferrari, filled with historical detail, technical data and beautiful photo after photo. A book you can pick up and read cover to cover, or just jump to a particular section (like famous owners) and enjoy!' Patrick T.

McLaren F1 GTR

What a incredible piece of history (5 ★)

'This book is unbelievably fantastic. I have never seen a better book on the McLaren F1 GTR. So rich in details with superb photographs and such a profound research on every single car. The title "the definitive history" is absolutely worth every letter. It is as perfect as the car itself. Since I received it I have opened it everyday because it is such a pleasure to read and browse it. Very, very well done, thank you Mark, Philip and everybody who was involved in this perfect piece of art.' Wolfgang H.

 

'Dear Philip,

'Congratulations to all those concerned with the F1 GTR book, a masterpiece of printing and production, many thanks for the copy you sent me. Some serious reading there, and I am glad the sketches reproduced so well. Peter Stevens, Peter Stevens Design'

 

'Excellent book, comparable to Driving Ambition.The title sums it up, this really is the definitive F1 book. My home is in Canada and the book arrived in 48 hrs.' Wayne R. (5 ★)

 

'Brilliant book, brilliant service, a pleasure to deal with.' Phillip S. (5 ★)

'Reinforce your bookcase to make space for this one!' anamera.com

 

 'The collection of 900 or so photos reproduced here is jawdropping in its content, both in terms of the global locations and the cars to be found there, including all the Grand Marques and a feast of rarities. Best of all, you'll likely be familiar with plenty of these cars as they are today.

'Such nostalgia will no doubt raise a wistful tear for those who lived through that pre-internet era when there were still discoveries to be made and not everyone knew the precise value of everything. Brilliant.' JE, Octane

 

 

'There is simply no book like this one, with each of the 400 pages new pictures and stories emerge that astonish us. With the help of another collector, Thomas Sommer, Michael Kliebenstein erected a memorial to the barn find and nourishes the hope of every classic car fan that maybe he too will win the jackpot one day as the hunter of the apparently lost treasure.' SpeedWeek

 

'This book is unique. It is a compendium of wonderful automotive treasure, as discovered. With the passage of time all cars became worthless and unloved, no matter how eminent. Racing cars inevitably became uncompetitive and redundant. Many vehicles passed into scrapyards, the motoring equivalent of a cemetery, or simply rotted away.

'Today, of course, we value, covet and preserve the work of great designers, engineers and coachbuilders, and their creations give enormous pleasure to many, whether it be in ownership, driving, competing or simply as historic objects to be admired when on display. All will have a story – sometimes sad, sometimes heroic.

'Many of the more esoteric car companies produced machines that were not only engineering masterpieces but also great works of art. 

'Italian Corrado Cupellini was a pioneer in the developing old car movement in the 1960s and ’70s. He had a mission: to explore, discover and rescue motor cars of merit before it was too late. He roved the world following his passion and this extraordinary book is a photographic record of his astounding journey of discovery.' politcommerce.com

 

'If you want something to keep the car enthusiast in your household out of mischief over Christmas, look no further. This wonderful tome was voted Book of the Year by the Milano AUTOCLASSICO Classic Car Show. I’m not remotely surprised.' David Tremayne, Grand Prix e-zine

 

...'there's pure gold here.' Magneto

JUE 477 - The world's first production Land-Rover

'Absolutely amazing (5 ★)

'Brilliant customer service and my purchase arrived super quickly. Thank you so much for being awesome.' Jacqui B. 

 

'The book exudes three things – enthusiasm, sympathy and skill. All have ensured that this historic Land Rover survives in a unique useable condition. Having read the book, I still found myself picking it up at odd moments just to marvel at what had been achieved.' TB, Vintage Spirit

 

'The story of chassis number 860001, the said car with registration number JUE 477, is all the more astonishing. Martin Port now describes it in a book that is absolutely worth reading and seeing.' secret-classics.com

 

'Land Rover Series 1 restoration of index JUE477 (5 ★)
'An inspiring book that demonstrates that there is no such thing as a dead car. The information regarding what exactly was carried out in the restoration and why is excellent reference material for anybody considering a similar project particularly if not employed as a professional mechanic. The quality of the book production makes it a worthwhile addition to my library. I certify that I have no link with editor nor publisher.' Charles E McHugh

 

'I like old vehicles of all types, and I’ve read and owned many articles and books covering restorations of classic Porsches, Triumphs, and other makes. I can’t remember one that achieved the same combination of description and illustration as Martin Port’s work. If you have the slightest practical or emotional interest in old Land Rovers, I recommend it most highly.' exploringoverland.com

'As a life long landrover enthusiast and owner I love to read anything about my favourite brand. I had to have this publication as I saw it advertised in one the two landrover publications I subscribe to. In this case book review in LRO. I was pleased to have such a speedy delivery. As soon as I opened the book I was impressed with the superb quality and definition of the photos, the story was so riveting, was great to see such a simpthetic and authentic renovation. It's a great addition to my Landrover book library.' John P. (5 ★)

 

Old Land Rovers Never Die (5 ★)

 

'Marvellous book documenting the rebuild. Good with quantity photos.' Robin S. (5 ★)

 

'My copy of JUE 477 arrived here safely in mid-America today.  All good.  

'It's a beautiful book -- exactly what I'd hoped it would be.  And of course a remarkable vehicle.  Well done to all.' Don H, Saint Louis, Missouri, USA

 

'A fantastic read (5 ★)

'This book is an absolute must for Land Rover and restoration enthusiasts. Port documents the history of the car and it’s restoration beautifully, and the imagery is stunning. A 5 star read.' Joanna R.

 

'A good read for a Land Rover enthusiast.' (5 ★) Trevor C. 

 

'Great read. Perfect swift delivery.' (5 ★) Johan D.

 

'Fast Shipping, Excellent Book (5 ★)

'The shipping (half way around the world to Hawaii!) was fast! The book was well packaged and nicely shrink-wrapped. Excellent read and pictures. Thank you to Porter Press International and the author and all those who made it possible.' Simon T.

 

'Porterpress; highly recommended! (5 ★)

'From placing order to taking delivery in Australia within days. Books are fantastic quality! Very pleased.' Marc S.

 

'Is it Christmas yet? (5 ★)

'It comes in a fine box... but I’m not allowed to see inside it yet because it’s a (surprise!) Christmas present. I’m sure it will be well worth waiting for!' Graeme A.

 

JUE 477 - The world’s first production Land-Rover (history and restoration) (5 ★)

'First class account of the recovery and patina restoration of the first production Land Rover

Really well written and good account of this story. The photograph of this event are very well taken and the book is extremely well written and represents great value for money.' Nigel M. UK

 

JUE 477 - The remarkable history and restoration of the world’s first production Land-Rover (5 ★)

'Number 1'

Five star! Jue 4.

 

'This book tells the car's story, with exclusive access to the four-month restoration that many thought impossible. Photography is first rate, making this essential reading for Land-Rover aficionados.' Classic Car Weekly

 

ROFGO Collection

'The book arrived on time and safely packaged. Doug Nye has written a most readable book covering each of the cars in the current collection, including comments of some of those directly involved. The quality of the printing and photographs is excellent. I was the Gulf Racing Lubricants and Fuels Engineer for Europe from March 1971-December 1975 and reported to John Horsman at JW Automotive Engineering and Gulf Research Racing Ltd. Thus, I was in attendance at all the Gulf-Porsche 917 and Gulf Mirage races during those years, also a few McLaren F1 races - great memories!' Ken E. (5 ★)

 

Excellent book

This is an outstanding production. High quality paper and excellent photography. Lots of detail perfect for race car lovers. John P. (5 ★)

 

'A beautifully produced book covering a mouth-watering collection of cars. Well worth the price.' John J. UK (5 ★)

 

'Most enjoyable book - Great book with excellent photography.' Bruce C. UK

 

'Very good item with great cars and history.' Joris D. Belgium

 

'Beautiful work (5 ★)

'The book is absolutely beautiful and very well put together it is an easy read in the photography is amazing. I’m wondering if you would be interested in writing a book and the Panoz GTR and LMP Cars if I could provide the content.' George K.

 

ROFGO Collection review

'Only 900 copies will be produced which, given the worldwide appeal of the blue and orange cars, surely means that it will become a collectors' item. Anyone with an interest in sports car racing should have a copy. An ideal Christmas present, perhaps?' BRDC Bulletin, Autumn 2020

 

'Thanks Louise, spectacular publications. I got my copy of the ROFGO Collection a few weeks ago, it is wonderful. I bought a set of Michael Turner postcards in London in 1970, they are still hanging on my wall and I have a copy of the last book of his collection....Can't wait for this new publication.' Johnny B.

Jaguar Lightweight E-type - The autobiography of 49 FXN (5 ★)

'Remarkably thorough and beautifully researched.

'I was a previous owner of the subject Lightweight E Type and thought I knew the car and its history well. The book, which is impressively printed and bound, constantly revealed the gaps in my knowledge.' Howard C. 

Review by Iain Robertson (b-c-ing-u.com) 

'Under the current state of ‘house arrest’, having viewed the latest Hollywood blockbuster chronicling the on and off-track battle undertaken between Ford (Carroll Shelby) and Ferrari (‘Le Mans ’66’), my resolve to conclude the review of the latest Porter Press blockbuster was strengthened. I am delighted to tell you which of the pair I preferred…it was NOT the movie! I make zero apology for being an ardent fan of Porter Press’s publications. As the fourteenth in the series of ‘Great Cars’, its 336pp follow the cover sleeve precepts of elegant photography on a gloss black background, which looks great on either coffee table, or bookshelf, and deals with the model-specific CSX2300. Interestingly, this great car, one of just six ever built, has as much relevance to historians as motoring and motorsport enthusiasts, having commenced its run of success for Shelby’s equipe in 1964, contesting four World Sportscar championship rounds the following year. Ford Motor Company needed a world-beater away from the constraints of US oval racing; that it would also be a Ferrari-beater was an incidental bonus. Texan Shelby was the means to that end and the author of this outstanding tome, Rinsey Mills, is probably better qualified than any other Shelby, or Cobra fan, having compiled the great man’s biography, which was published just weeks prior to his passing, as well as several other Cobra related titles. Designed by the infamous Peter Brock, who also wrote the book’s foreword, CSX2300’s racing history is explored in tremendous detail. It endured a record not entirely free of disappointment that also underscored the Shelby American team’s remarkable mechanical capabilities, eventually lifting the title at Reims, despite suffering a broken connecting-rod. The eight international drivers of the car warrant their own sections within the contents. It is a wonderfully comprehensive study of a superb machine, from concept, design and build, through to a stunning collection of colour plates snapped at Reims in readiness for the book’s publication. The car continues to make star turns at various international events.'

 

Shelby Cobra Daytona Coupe - The autobiography of CSX2300 (5 ★)
'Beautiful book, and excellent service/delivery
'A wonderful book, which has been brilliantly compiled. Fabulous! Thank you.' Steve R.

 

Shelby Cobra Daytona Coupe (5 ★)

Review by Iain Robertson (b-c-ing-u.com)

'Part of Porter Press’s tremendous success in the book publishing scene lies in its ability to avoid standing still. Having already established a ‘gold standard’ with its current series of books in various formats, its latest diversion is the new ‘Coachbuilt Cars’, of which this 1954 Ghia designed Jaguar XK120 is the first. Although largely unknown to the wider world, Ghia’s design innovator of the period was Giovanni Savonuzzi. Emerging from the post-WW2 period of austerity, his Supersonic series of productions was not limited to Jaguar, as he also crafted similar profiles for Fiat and Aston Martin. However, one of the three Jaguar XK120 versions was extra-special, as its engine was modified by tuning legend, Virgilio Conrero. It is worth highlighting that long before Ford Motor Company subsumed the Ghia design enterprise into little more than a trim option on run-of-the-mill Escorts, it was THE leading and most in-demand automotive styling house in the world. Thus, the well-researched contents of this new title deal as much with the design studio as one of its more remarkable creations. Inevitably, the car has a fascinating past, which author and respected classic car journalist, Richard Heseltine, delved into with his usual unravelling talents. It is fair to describe it as both uncannily secretive and surprisingly chequered…most of the details being revealed in glorious Technicolor! If Porter Press is seeking another subject, I should like to recommend the Bugatti EB112; more modern (1990-ish) but assuredly as complex to write and chronicle. As a new series for Porter, the rich crimson cover and customary photographic highlights will add a new era of success to its fold.'

The Self Preservation Society - 50 Years of The Italian Job (Collector's) (5 ★) 'The book is well produced and very high quality. The photos, diagrams and type face make the book a pleasure to read. The content is well researched and adds a great deal to the background of the making of the movie. Highly recommended for aficionados of The Italian Job'. Andreas O. Canada

 

'The book is out of this world from start to finish. A definite cherished item for the rest of my life!...Great information and pictures make it perfect for my all time fav film!!' Wayne B. (5 ★)

'An excellent book, very good quality edition. Up to the usual high standard of Porter Press.'Michael C. (5 ★)

'Absolutely delighted with this book, which provides wealth of new information about my favourite film of all time.' Malcolm W. UK (5 ★)

 

The All-American Hero and Jaguar's Racing E-types

Outstanding (5 ★)

'Porter Press always deliver a book to enjoy re the Cunningham racing history.' Robert B.

 

Best of British, August

‘…The book is packed with fantastic photos showing the development, the competition, the people involved and atmospheric images of the races scene of the time. It’s a fine example of the stylish automotive presentation that Porter Press does so well. A contemporary photo-shoot with 875027 reveals the car’s great details, and there’s a chance to meet its privileged custodian and take a peep at the Cunningham Collection.’ 

 

Classic & Sports Car, Book of the Month

'Some books dedicated to this legendary sportsman have been exhaustive, but equally exhausting to read; this strikes the right balance.'

...'The layout is attractive and easy to navigate, while production values are consistently high. Sumptuous studio images of the Lightweight E-type (chassis 875027) driven by Cunningham and John Fitch to a class win at the '62 Sebring 12 Hours round things out perfectly. Recommended, and is not just for Jaguar fans.'

 

From David Lillywhite, Editor, Magneto

I received The All-American Hero and Jaguar's Racing E-types book a couple of days ago, and I just wanted to say that I think it's absolutely stunning.

I've already read substantial chunks of it, and it's proving fascinating, but also the repro of the photographs and overall quality is just remarkable. Fantastic!

Very best regards,

David

 

The All-american Hero and Jaguar's Racing E-types (5 ★)

'I just finished it at the weekend and absolutely loved it, a brilliant book.' Clive S.

Review by Retro-Speed.co.uk: The All-American Hero and Jaguar’s Racing E-types

'As always with Porter Press products, the attention given over to presentation is first class. Profusely illustrated, and edited by Simon Arron, the book closes with a superb close-up image gallery supplied by Michael Furman of E-type chassis number 875027. This is the car driven by Briggs Cunningham and John Fitch to a class win at Sebring in 1962.

'Criticisms? None. It’s a great read, and superb value at £60, less using the Retro-Speed discount code. This is not the only book dedicated to Briggs Cunningham, but in my view, it is the best. Thoroughly recommended.' Peter Baker

 

"I have always been interested in Briggs Cunningham. When I found out about this book being published it went straight to the top of my shopping list.Excellent from start to finish of the highest quality. ..This is my 15th book from Porterpress. They are at the top of their game. Congratulations to all involved." Andrew N.

 

Comment posted on: Bob Blake of Cunningham

'I too have a “R.F.Blake, Arlington” build tag on my single seat Ford Riley powered race car and am in the same predicament as Mr. Crowder above desperately looking for racing information to positively identify my car. It may or may not be a Horn/ Hinnershitz car but there are not many Riley powered Blake body car’s . We have clues such as the Blake body tag, the 1936 (or later) Ford V8 wire wheels, the iron OHV Riley heads are pre War. There are no race numbers or logo’s on the car or any other identifying characteristic’s such as serial numbers. My theory is that Mr. Blakes beautiful designed bodies from the late 30’s and the success of Horn & Hinnershitz caught the attention of Briggs Cunningham. Can anyone please fill in the gaps as to how Horn & Blake met or knew one another ? I know Horn had his race shop in Paterson and yes, I have the book of his life by Clymer but there isn’t any further insight as to his relationship with Blake. Horn ran 5 cars late in his career after gaining success at Indy which allowed him to fund the team Ted Horn Enterprise ( T.H.E.), Many thanks!' Rochester, NY

'Sadly whenever I interviewed Bob Blake, I never talked to him about his pre-Cunningham days. So, I am afraid I cannot shed any light on his earlier work. I guess it is very possible Briggs Cunningham knew of Bob before the war but I don't think they met before Bob's 'emergency' summons and dash over to Le Mans in 1950. This was, I am pretty sure, their first meeting. One of these days, I must listen again to my interview with Mr. Cunningham and see if he made any mention of Bob.' Philip Porter

Very Fast Feed-Back!

As we had literally just added the John Colley article to the website we received this glowing testimonial by Charles H - thank you so much for your feedback.

'Mr. Colley’s work and, indeed, that of each of the Porter Press enlisted photographers is exactly perfect in concept in my decidedly unlearned opinion. I want to see the subject from each angle in sharp detail. I want to see close-up the astounding design and workmanship of the visionaries who first imagined these Great (and Exceptional) machines. I want to see illuminated all I’ve just read about. I’ve just completed the R4D biography and can give no greater praise than to say the photo essay at the end matched the text of the history magnificently.'

Ferrari 857S - The Remarkable history of 0578M

Ferrari 857S - The Remarkable history of 0578M (5 ★)
It's not a V-12, but it is still a Ferrari

 

 

'I had never heard of that car before I saw the book cover. It is not a V-12 but it still has an exciting racing pedigree. Great history details, racing results, different owners and fantastic period photography and gorgeous modern studio pictures.' Micheal S. Canada

Ferrari 857S - The remarkable history of 0578M (5 ★)
Excellent.
'Top service and Shipping quality. Books are in perfect condition.' Marc N. France

Works Porsche 956 - The Definitive History

Works Porsche 956 - The Definitive History, by Serge Vanbockryck

 

Sport Auto, Germany, March 2020

'The definitive history of the Porsche 956? The title seems almost understated after reading the book. Serge Vanbockryck, both as a fan and as a journalistically accomplished historian, has written a standard work that will hardly ever be topped.'

 

PUUR Porsche Magazine, The Netherlands, March 2020

'This book is the best we’ve ever seen in the field of Porsche racing books.'

 

000 Magazine, USA, April 2020

'Serge Vanbockryck’s book is the first large-scale effort to give the 956 proper respect. The man is well versed in the history of sports-car racing and, as a former sports journalist, he attended many of the major events.'

 

'May I also take this opportunity to let you know that I absolutely LOVE the books in the "Great Cars", "Exceptional Cars" and "Ultimate Cars" series. With my order of today, I now have 15 of these in my collection and more will certainly follow (MUCH looking forward to the McLaren F1 GTR books for example). I hope that many more interesting titles will follow for many years to come in all three series. For example, a few more on classic racing Porsche´s like the one you did on the 917 would be great :-)

'Well, thanks again to the whole Porter Press team for giving me and all the other car enthusiasts worldwide such great literature to enjoy. You are my favourite publisher without any doubt!

'Best regards and stay healthy.' Lars Theunissen

   

Shelby Cobra Daytona Coupe: The autobiography of CSX2300

Shelby Cobra Daytona Coupe: The autobiography of CSX2300 by Rinsey Mills

 Octane, Book of the Month

'While we were talking with Peter Brock, designer of the Cobra Daytona Coupe, for Octane's cover feature about Cobras in issue 203, he recommended this new book to us. Which tells you all you need to know: if you're interested in these shapely racing coupés, it's an essential purchase.

'... there's far more to this book than the history of a single Daytona Coupe. As Brock himself writes in the foreword: ' [The author's] first-hand accounts ... bring into focus so many of the guys on the crew who have never had the recognition they deserved.' And for this reviewer, at least, it's the behind-the-scenes pictures inside and outside the Shelby workshops that really resonate - guys with shirtsleeves rolled up, working around the clock to finish a project that they're completely immersed in.

'Presentation of these images (and the notably clear text and captions) is uniformly superb. Look at the example, below, of CSX2286 being loaded into a TWA airliner: can't you just feel the heat bouncing off the concrete beneath a searing Californian sky? It all adds up to a very handsome production indeed.'

And more...

“More accolades for the Daytona book.....we've many phone calls as well.  Very complimentary...”. Peter Brock

“I received the Shelby Cobra Daytona Coupe book on Saturday.  I love the composition of the photos along with their descriptions and then the associated stories.  Great reading and very well done!

“I was especially pleased for it to be plated #36, a special treat… Thank you so much!" Peter O.

Auto Express, March 2020

'It's impressive to see a volume with such high production values and so much detail about a car that's so rare - only six Daytona Coupés were built. It's a well researched story, and as always we enjoy this series' selections of high-quality studio shots at the end of the book.'

Porsche Road & Race (web)

'Truly one of the ‘Great Cars', the Shelby Cobra Daytona Coupé is a most worthy title in this acclaimed series of books. The author, Rinsey Mills, is a lifelong enthusiast of the Cobra, having restored and raced the cars. Any enthusiast of motorsport in the 1960s, whether that be Ferrari, Cobra, Aston Martin, Jaguar or Porsche, this book will prove a most valuable addition to your motorsport library.'

From Alain de Cadenet

Dear Philip,

Good story by Chas Parker on Rodriguez in the wet Brands 1000Kms. Pedro gave a master class to one and all that afternoon. When the Sifferts, Redmans, Elfords and Ickxs are astounded by a driver’s performance - indeed so was every other driver in the race - you knew that something special was taking place. 

At the end of the event, Pedro looked just as immaculate as he had looked at the start - not a hair out of place, his grin giving nothing away. As the late, much-missed RAF pilot, Ray Hannah, used to say, ‘There are those who can and those who can’t.’ 

But then it was still a sport…

Best

Alain

 

Stirling Moss Collection

From Howard Cohen, USA

Good morning Philip,

Thank you for your latest Newsletter. I too have fond memories of Stirling Moss and admired him greatly although I didn't know him nearly as well as you did. You might find this brief recollection and very poor quality photograph of some interest. It dates from Johannesburg in 1974. One of my cars was a 1962 Cooper Climax that had a 2.7-litre Coventry Climax engine that it had been fitted with for the Intercontinental Series (I think) and had subsequently been acquired by the Rhodesian Champion John Love who was famous for coming third in the 1967 South African Grand Prix with the car when it was hopelessly out of date.

The car was known as ‘Gertrude’ and I got her from the late-Hugh Gearing after crashing it into the catch fences at Kyalami's Crowthorne Corner after he'd lent it to me to try. I've never been very good in formula cars since I lack that certain deftness to exploit them properly and was happy to lend the car to Stirling to demonstrate before the 1974 South African Grand Prix. We'd known each other slightly through racing in various places (enhanced perhaps by us both having been expelled from the same school) and he arrived in Johannesburg a few days before the Grand Prix to have a visit and practise the car at Kyalami.

He started out at (perhaps) 2 minutes 10 seconds for his first lap and after a dozen more was at 1.36 dead where he stayed for the next six laps before coming in saying,  ‘Now I know why I used to go motor racing!’ John Love's best time in the car had been 1.36.5 and mine had been just over 1.37. Both John Love and I used to use a rev limit of 7,200 RPM but when Stirling came in he'd left the telltale at 6,500! 

That was when I knew I'd never be a great racing driver!

Regards,

Howard

From Lars Theunissen, Munich, Germany

Dear Porter Press team,

Just wanted to say thank you very much for your great charity offer. As you can see, I´ve happily taken advantage of it and ordered five more books for my collection. Not only was I very pleased to be able to order these with a discount of GBP 65, but to know that another GBP 65 will be donated to the WHO by Porter Press is a real bonus too! :-) So, thank you very much indeed for this great initiative! 

From Adrian Morris (One of our two superb book designers)

Dear Philip,

I was watching the Netflix film about Fangio last night and there is a lovely lingering shot in there of a pile of books. Centre of frame: two Porter Press books about Maserati by a certain Ian Wagstaff.

Adrian

Ford GT40 Mark II - The remarkable history of 1016

'Mark is my cousin and when I was a teenager he took me to Silverstone to watch some races. His enthusiasm for car racing was palpable then. So I may be somewhat biased. It is a beautifully written book and fun to read. It drew me in and I couldn’t put it down. It is sufficiently detailed yet not pedantic. It has a quick pace so there is never a dull moment. He captures the intricacies of car racing at every level from the mechanical, the engineering, to the financial and the political and most of all the personalities. A fascinating read for anyone with even the most amateur interest in motor car racing to a sophisticated understanding of the sport. Mark has done an exceptional job with this book. It is a fascinating read. I highly recommend it. I live in Canada and I can’t wait to talk with Mark about the Car.'

Howard C. Canada

Alfa Romeo T33/TT/3 - The remarkable history of 115.72.002

Excellent service and products

'Having purchased several other books from Porter Press, I was excited to see this title and ordered it. It arrived quickly and the quality of the book is phenomenal. The photography is stunning and sharp, the text informative and well written. Highly recommended.' Brett M. (5 ★)

 

Ferrari 250 GT SWB - The Remarkable history of 2689

 

'Written by one of the best writers in the business and produced by one of the most credible publishers, this is the eighth book in Porter Press's Exceptional Cars series. As with all the books in the series, evocative period imagery is combined with modern studio-shot pictures to great effect.'  Richard Dredge, Ferrari Owners Club Magazine

 

'Whenever I glance at our book, I still smile with great satisfaction.' Martin Brundle

'Philip,

'I wanted to buy a couple of your books anyway so I thought I would test out your distribution system to the USA. So I ordered two books on Tuesday and they arrived yesterday (Thursday)! That is a quite remarkable turn around so full marks to everyone involved.' David W

One Formula - 50 years of car design (5 ★)

'A thing of enthusiastic beauty

 

'This book didn’t come cheap but was worth all the pennies. Probably one of the most beautiful books I’ve ever got my hands on. Exciting, unbelievably nice in the layout, this is a must have for all F1 fans, and anyone who seeks to try to understand pure determination. Thank you!' Gabor S.

 

  

Jaguar Lightweight E Type 49 FXN (5 ★)

'A thorough and very readable account. Excellent photographs. No stone has been left unturned.' Harmina A.

 

'I have just received the complete set of "Exceptional Car" series as a 70th birthday gift. They are simply stunning and destined to keep an old man very happy. Rest assured, I will be adding to my collection as and when new titles appear. Best regards, Marc Brookes.'   

 

From Guy Hanten, Luxembourg - Guy ordered a Stirling Moss 90th Birthday Set which we despatched. The courier then decided they had lost this large package, so we sent a replacement set to Guy. Then the courier found the parcel and returned the four Scrapbooks to us!  

 

'I just want to let you know that my package just arrived at my home half an hour ago. Everything was so well packed that everything arrived in a very good condition!

I would also like to thank you again for your great help, your patience with me, and your efficiency to manage this ‘special’ situation with one package having been lost or even stolen…

I know that what makes a great and reliable partner is the way this partner manages such difficult situations, and you definitely managed this very tactfully and efficiently.

I had the feeling from the first time I ordered a book, or even a few books, with you that I was in good hands, and this seals definitely my loyalty to your company and its people working for it.

Keep on working so well on behalf of Porter Press and with such a great respect for your customers.' Guy Hanten

Maserati 250F - The autobiography of 2528 (5 ★)
'Excellent. A fantastic account of an iconic car. Including some fantastic period photos. A must for anyone interested in the golden age of Formula 1.' Michael C.

 

We are delighted to see that we have had more comments on a couple of our recent articles. These are two of our latest with replies by Philip Porter.

Comment posted on: Car Studio Photography by John Colley

'I have had the pleasure of watching John photograph my classic Land Rover for a magazine feature some years ago, it was eerie watching the vehicle rotating on the turntable in front of me. I have already enjoyed seeing his work since then, the photos show their subject at its best.' Andrew Turford

'I first worked with John Colley on a Classic & Sports Car feature in the mid-'80s and have always greatly admired his skills. This feature was on Neil Corner's collection and, fast-forwarding about 40 years, when Neil asked us to publish a book on his fabulously original Maserati 250F, he requested John to do the photography. He was, in fact, exactly who we had in mind. A few photographers are prima donnas but John has always been an absolute pleasure to work with, and we have become good friends.' Philip Porter