Drive
Anyone attempting to trace the automobile’s journey from simple four-stroke engine to complex driverless vehicle in one book is taking on quite the challenge, which may explain why Drive is about the size of a Fiat Punto. But while its heft might make your arms ache, its contents will get your brain buzzing. This is an exhaustive, but never exhausting, undertaking, covering everything from mass production to motorsport and from safety to SUVS. Its sheer scope means it’s more encyclopaedia than in-depth examination, but it’s packed with fascinating facts and wonderful images, and is written in a snappy, engaging style – no surprise, given that editor Giles Chapman and several of the writers are Classic & Sports Car alumni. Even car obsessives will learn something new here, and it’s well worth a space on your (reinforced) bookshelf. MM £25 Giles Chapman, Dorling Kindersley. ISBN 978 0 2413 1766 2