Republic P-47B-D Razorback

by Robert Pęczkowski

A remarkable multi-role American WWII aircraft—designed and built by two Russians. Aimed at the scale modeler, this book offers a grand look at the smallest of details but no big-picture operational history.

The V12 Engine

by Karl Ludvigsen

What do a tiny 1.1L motor from 1926 and a monster 112L from 1965 (which actually comprises four engines) have in common? A V12 configuration. How this is possible and why this is desirable—and why it didn’t always work—is the subject of a book first published a decade ago but now thankfully reissued.

Bentley Continental, Corniche & Azure 1951–2002

by Martin Bennett

The original Continental was the most expensive production car in its day. And it was fast. Its place on the food chain changed over the years and this book traces it and its derivatives in exhaustive detail.

From Schoolboy to Station Commander

by Jock Heron

This autobiographical memoir by a career RAF pilot who also worked with and then for aero engine maker Rolls-Royce sheds light on man facets of active-duty flying, engineering/admin, and procurement.

Hawker Hurricane

by Marek Ryś

A high-level survey of all Marks of the famous British WW II fighter that was the RAF’s first-ever monoplane. Specifically aimed at scale modelers and anyone who wants a quick but solid synopsis.

Mercedes-AMG GT, A Star Is Born

by Bolsinger, Brinkmann, Ising

At every F1 race you see—and hear!—a GT S tearing up the track as the official safety car. Unlike its predecessor, the GT is relatively affordable so if you foresee one under your Christmas tree, check out this book first.

Mask

by Luciano Rigolini

A book without words. Audience participation required, otherwise the book will just waste 1.5 inches of shelf space. It’ll still look good, and with this kernel of wisdom you’re already in the thick of things.

P-51D Mustang American Aces

by Artur Juszczak

The P-51D was the definitive version of the Mustang P-51D and the primary USAAF fighter in Europe. Tons of kit models exist and if you want to customize them, this is your book.

Shipbreak

by Claudio Cambon

A “meditation” in words and images on matters far greater than the scrapping of a ship with all its human and environmental hardship. It is enriching, articulate, has a point of view, and is beautifully photographed.

The Spectre Arise

by Steve Stuckey

Introduced in 1936 and drawing on the firm’s aero engine expertise the P III was to defend Rolls-Royce’s honor in the “battle of the cylinders.” It is considered the first modern Rolls-Royce, with all the pros and cons this entails. This book has no cons but there aren’t many copies to go around.

Bill Lancaster: The Final Verdict

by Ralph Barker

Romance. Record-flying. Murder. Acquittal. Fatal plane crash in the desert: accident? suicide? What, you’re still on the fence whether you want to read this book??

Owning Model S

by Nick J. Howe

You may not have seen one in the wild but since their launch in 2012 tens of thousands of these things are on the road the world over. Time to find out what makes them tick (well, hum, if anything), no?