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Aston Martin DB9 and Vanquish: The Complete Story £30
Remarkable as it may seem, the Aston Martin DB9 is 20 years old this year. But its origins stretch back even further, to the Ian Callum-penned Project Vantage show car unveiled in 1998. That became 2001’s V12 Vanquish and it was from this flagship model, with its advanced body structure, that the DB9 was developed. Being one of Crowood’s Complete Story series, this book is truly in-depth, running to 176 pages, with the name of prolific motoring writer – and CCW contributor – James Taylor on the cover a further guarantee that it is going to deliver the goods. As well as exploring how the DB9 and Vanquish came into existence and their production lives – in great, informative and readable detail – there are also chapters on motor sport, purchase and ownership, a look of how these complex cars were built, and even a list of paint colours. Well-researched, well-written and highly recommended as a result.
❚ Author: James Taylor
❚ ISBN: 978- 0-719843-16-7
❚ Publisher: The Crowood Press
Triumph Vitesse 2-litre £95
The introduction of the GT6 2.0-litre engine into the Triumph Vitesse (distinguishable from the closely-related Herald by its menacing slanted four-headlight design) lifted performance to more than 100mph. The Vitesse has been neglected somewhat in scale modelling but Matrix Models has re-balanced this with its new 1:43 presentation. Based on WCR 395J, a 1971 convertible, the interior is the most impressive aspect. Touches such as the Triumph logo on the steering wheel, the wooden fascia highlighting the glove box, window winders and sun visors demonstrate the standards that collectors have come to expe
