The Autocourse History of the Grand Prix Car 1945–1965 by Doug Nye

The Autocourse History of the Grand Prix Car 1945–1965 by acclaimed motorsport historian Doug Nye is an essential reference work covering the foundational years of modern Formula One racing. Published by Hazleton Publishing in 1993, this volume complements the later 1966–1985 edition and is highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts interested in the origins and early evolution of Grand Prix engineering.

This comprehensive work explores the immediate post-war resurgence of international motor racing through to the end of the 1.5-litre Formula in 1965. History of the Grand Prix Car 1945–1965 details the pioneering designs, engineering breakthroughs, and fierce competition between legendary manufacturers such as Alfa Romeo, Ferrari, Maserati, Mercedes-Benz, Vanwall, and Cooper. The transition from front-engined to rear-engined cars—one of the most significant revolutions in racing history—is covered in depth.

Lavishly illustrated with period photography, rare archival images, and technical drawings, the book offers both visual appeal and scholarly depth. Detailed appendices and marque studies provide additional context, making History of the Grand Prix Car 1945–1965 a valuable research tool as well as a collector’s piece. As part of the prestigious Autocourse series, it holds enduring appeal in the motorsport literature market, particularly for collectors building a complete set.

Despite its condition, this remains a solid and affordable entry into high-quality Formula One reference material.

Condition – Good

Fair to good overall. Blue cloth hardcover boards are in very good condition with minimal wear. The dust jacket is present and generally intact with light shelf wear. The book has moisture damage along the bottom edge of the text block, with visible staining and slight rippling to some pages, though the text remains legible and the binding sound. A serviceable reading copy rather than a collector-grade example