This is a guide to the most important and significant models made between 1945 and 1985, with illustrations of every car augmented by authoritative and comprehensive text. It contains contemporary illustrations of classic cars and their owners, and shows the models in their social and historical context. It provides a history of the evolution of the motor car, with special features on design, technological advances, social use, the movies and much more. It provides a celebration of the classic car - an emblem of individualism and personal expression, and the quintessential symbol of the twentieth century. This comprehensive visual reference shows every important international marque from A to Z: the Ferrari Daytona, the Lancia Fulvia, the Rover 2000, the Rolls Royce Silver Shadow, the VW Beetle, the Ford Thunderbird and the much-loved Mini. Detailed descriptions, history and technical information accompany every entry, making this a most authoritative and comprehensive guide. The history of the development of the car is also covered in detail, discussing the milestone models, leading designers, engineers and manufacturers. The role of the car in society, its starring role in cinema and television and its associations within our culture is put in fascinating context. With over 700 stunning images of the cars, this book is a definitive gallery of classic cars.