1952 was one of the most important years in Mercedes-Benz racing history; after a 13-year absence, it returned to motor sport competition with an automobile that rewrote the history of modern sports car racing. The 300 SL's debut was the culmination of a long, difficult road back to racing for Mercedes-Benz after a 13 year break. This book vividly depicts the 300 SL's performance in the five races in which it competed in 1952, and tells the story of how it became the most successful competition sports car of that year. Through dramatic photographs, and equally stirring text, one of the greatest years of sports car racing is brought to life, filled with automobiles often finished in national racing colours, prepared by great factory teams, driven by men who were national sporting idols, and raced under gruelling conditions unique to the age. From its Mille Miglia debut, through the Nurburgring, the Le Mans 24 Hours, to its greatest race, the Carrera Panamericana, the 300 SL's career from conception to retirement is presented, culminating with a detailed photographic essay illustrating restoration of the oldest 300 SL in existence.

Two Summers offers a fresh, revealing and highly personal look at the culture of Grand Prix racing as it was during the 1954 and 1955 championships, with individual portraits of the twelve races in which the Mercedes-Benz W 196 R participated. This book explores the Mercedes-Benz W 196 R's historic roots, development, and its place in Grand Prix racing, detailing its triumphs, struggles and disappointments, as well as the spirited challenges from Maserati, Ferrari, Gordini and Lancia.With carefully crafted observations and conclusions, given added drama by richly detailed illustrations, this book captures the energy and dynamic nature of these racing seasons, and shows that Juan Fangio was indeed the ultimate master of the art and science of racing a Grand Prix automobile; the W 196 R the instrument with which he honed his skills. This book captures the decisive moments when victory - hanging in the balance - tilted in Fangio's favor, due to his iron discipline, and steady hand on the wheel.The W 196 R's racing days may be long gone, but the car remains a shining star of Mercedes-Benz' participation in motor sport heritage events worldwide.It is this timeless appeal of the W 196 R that gives Two Summers its vitality, charm and enduring attraction.

This is the story of the most popular pickup truck of all time, the Ford F-150, and its predecessor, the F-100. This book records over forty years in its long life, during which time the Ford pickup has remained true to its origins, a vehicle that, when called upon, can deliver a solid day's work, off road or on, day after day, year after year - each one built `Ford Tough.' Over the years the Ford pickup has sold in astounding numbers to become part of everyday American life. Packed with hundreds of mostly colour illustrations, and technical specifications, this book also includes advice on restoring the first F-1 pickup of 1948 and the original F-100 of 1953.