Mercedes-Benz Grand Prix Race Cars 1934–1966
By Louis Sugahara
Japanese artist Louis Sugahara combines his artistic talent and automotive expertise in this fascinating work, to take readers through a detailed analysis of the development of Mercedes’s famed Silver Arrows. From the W25 to the W196, Sugahara traces the evolution of the Mercedes-Benz Grand Prix cars that competed between 1934 and 1955, including the renowned 300 SLR that celebrates its 50th birthday this year. Using historical records, the author documents the ongoing modifications that were made to the cars due to rule changes, circuit conditions and the racing styles of legendary drivers like Caracciola, Fagioli, Moss and Fangio.
Sugahara’s detailed narrative is illustrated with both rare historical photographs and more than 100 of his original illustrations. These meticulous renderings, accompanied by detailed commentary, demonstrate how body styling and even minor exterior details like rear-view mirrors and radiator grills, were influenced by a constant process of modification and experimentation.
Originally written in Japanese, this new 256-page edition is now available in English and also features an appendix with circuit layouts, race results and model specifications. Available directly from the publisher for $39.95 from Classique Car Library, (830) 997-4776 or www.classiquecarlibrary.com