British Family Cars of the 1950s and ‘60s: No. 489 (Shire Library)

I expected this book to include, as is suggested on the cover "British Family Cars of the 1950's and 1960's" a comprehensive list both illustrated and with specifications - not unreasonable considering the title.Whilst it includes some nice pictures of a number of vehicles and actual advertising material from the era, it is very sketchy and inconsistent in composition, lacking not only some car models but many specifications of those that are included.In some cases the commentary is also inconsistent, for example, both condemning and praising the styling of the Morris Oxford on different pages.While it is nicely presented and interesting for those who are happy with a 'lite' publication, for anyone who wants to know actual details of the many interesting vehicles of this era, I wouldn't recommend it.Very disappointed - I will probably return it based on being not as advertised.

Shire Library, are in my opinion the "Masters of Nostalgia" - they consistently produce high quality and well illustrated books about many aspects of life from bygone eras. This book "British Family Cars of the 1950s and 60s" maintains that tradition and is well written and illustrated, mostly in colour.Although short (around 70 pages), this book recalls cars from the UK that if you are in your 50s or 60, your Dad may have owned. Do you remember the Hillman Minx, Super Minx, Humber Hawk/Super Snipe, Riley Kestrel or Vauxhall Velox? Icons like these are vividly recalled using text, photographs and reproductions of the original manufacturer's adverts and brochures. The book also includes some of the motoring accessories of the time together with an interesting commentary by Anthony Pritchard.To me this book also served to chart the British dominance of the car market at that time and also to contrast how far we've come today - would drivers back then have believed I can check the tyre pressures in my Audi from the dashboard?If you are looking for a light read and a fix of 1950s/60s motoring nostalgia then this well produced but short book is a worthy investment. Recommended.

If you want a basic overview of British cars of the 1950's and 1960's this will be worthwhile.The information is fairly basic but there are some good photographs and it is quite entertaining.

Dad loved itQuite small book

Good potted history - but a bit light on detail

Good words and images of cars from the 50's and 60's that would appeal to any car enthusiast who wants to get a bit more information on British Famil cars from this period.

A wonderful stocking filler for men of a certain age to peruse- good text and photos and graphics- great accompaniment to the other shire retro car series- terrific.

This is a lovely little book, full of the most popular classic cars and full of knowledge. Bought this as a present for classic car enthusiast and they loved it