Mike Lawrence Colin Chapman was the most charismatic and brilliant engineer in the history of motor racing. His innovative designs revolutionized the layout of the grand prix car. He played a key role in the establishment of the British motor racing industry which now leads the world. Through his Lotus company he not only dominated Formula 1 racing but made an extraordinary contribution to the development of the sportscar. The Lotus 7, the Elite, and the Elan were landmark cars that strongly influence designers to this day. Mike Lawrence's full biography of this remarkable man recalls his achievements, but it also delves into the dark side of his genius. For Chapman's glorious career was flawed by his sometimes dubious business practices, and his last months were overshadowed by the imminent exposure of his role in the DeLorean conspiracy. When Chapman died suddenly, aged 54, in 1982, he was threatened by legal action that might have brought financial disaster and personal disgrace. In reassessing his responsibility in the scandal and his groundbreaking contribution as a car maker, Mike Lawrence throws new light onto his complex personality and gives a fresh insight into the exciting cars he created. Hardcover, 9-1/4 x 6, 224 pp, 50 b/w This book is out of print, please email for price and availability. |