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Meanwhile, polite society occupied the large castles nestled amongst the coastal area still standing today for all to see.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis history and gazetteer, with over 500 entries and plentiful illustrations and plans, will enhance your understanding of the history of the borders and their proud, turbulent past.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Gardners","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":56299434508661,"sku":"9780750994095","price":20.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0612\/7193\/3106\/files\/9780750994095_a2490b0e-4d02-4818-95c9-0668160556fe.jpg?v=1786014671"},{"product_id":"9781787111356","title":"Porsche 944","description":"\u003ci\u003ePorsche 944\u003c\/i\u003e is the definitive history of the ever exquisite Porsche 944. This highly produced history comes to you from Brian Long, an acknowledged expert.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Introduced to fill the gap between the 924 and 928 models, the 944 quickly became the fastest selling Porsche of all time. From drawing board, through Turbo, S and soft-top variants, here is the full story of the 944 up to its replacement by the 968 in 1991.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Affordable, durable and with excellent performance and handling, the 944 is now well established as a desirable and practical classic.","brand":"Gardners","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":56305046487413,"sku":"9781787111356","price":37.5,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0612\/7193\/3106\/files\/9781787111356_87c92860-1ffe-467f-ba1d-cfddccc4a473.jpg?v=1786026113"},{"product_id":"9781787119161","title":"SM","description":"\u003cp\u003eAvailable again after several years absence!\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis is the fascinating story of how Citroen’s flagship model, the SM, came into being. The book follows the car’s progress from its world premier at the 1970 Geneva Show until the final production models were built in July 1975, and covers both company politics and Maserati‘s involvement in detail. Heavily illustrated with both colour and period black and white photographs, brochures and illustrations, this book is the definitive international history of a fascinating and quirky 20th Century automotive icon.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Gardners","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":56305047241077,"sku":"9781787119161","price":35.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0612\/7193\/3106\/files\/9781787119161_0327bdc2-44f0-4b3a-b247-bb661bd55714.jpg?v=1786444940"},{"product_id":"9781787117945","title":"Porsche Racing Cars","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe third volume in a definitive history of Porsche's racing cars, bringing the story right up-to-date. Illustrated throughout with contemporary photography sourced from the factory, this book serves as the perfect record of Porsche's motorsport exploits from 2006 onwards. Written by an acknowledged Porsche expert, with the full co-operation of the factory.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Gardners","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":56305047273845,"sku":"9781787117945","price":75.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0612\/7193\/3106\/files\/9781787117945_a3d2e303-1a54-4d7c-86f9-2d8e4275a18a.jpg?v=1786026211"},{"product_id":"9781787112155","title":"Peugeot Classic Bicycles 1945 to 1985","description":"\u003ci\u003ePeugeot Classic Bicycles 1945 to 1985\u003c\/i\u003e, written with the full co-operation of the factory, brings to life the golden era of Peugeot bicycles.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e After a brief look at the company's pre-war days, the richly-illustrated pages focus on a period when the Peugeot name was synonymous with the Tour de France and racing, and brings the story up to date with coverage of later machines. Both road and race bikes are looked at in detail, with the book written in a fashion that makes it equally suitable for both reference and as a coffee table tome for the enthusiast.","brand":"Gardners","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":56305197187445,"sku":"9781787112155","price":35.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0612\/7193\/3106\/files\/9781787112155_614d8a9b-d1c8-4937-ab12-91d1400550a6.jpg?v=1786026129"},{"product_id":"9781787117518","title":"The Book of the Honda S2000","description":"\u003cb\u003e\u003ci\u003eNow in paperback! \u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/b\u003eResearched and written in Japan with the full co-operation of the factory, here in definitive detail is the story of the Honda S2000 – a series of open two-seaters that built on the success of the NSX, helping the company justify its on-track exploits with a proper line of sporting machinery.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Successful immediately, the S2000 models defended Honda’s honour on the tracks, but it was in the showrooms where the S2000 excelled. After a major face-lift, it was eventually killed off in 2009, but is as popular today as it ever was as a modern classic for enthusiasts.","brand":"Gardners","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":56305659314549,"sku":"9781787117518","price":25.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0612\/7193\/3106\/files\/9781787117518_a251ab3c-6ef6-4fb0-a808-0ac75e21aaf2.jpg?v=1786026201"},{"product_id":"9781787113282","title":"Mazda MX-5 Miata Roadster","description":"This is the fascinating inside story of the design and build of what would become the world's favourite lightweight sports car. Candid text, written by the engineers and designers themselves, guides the reader through every stage of the vehicle's development, from original concept through to the production model that took the world by storm.","brand":"Gardners","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":56305733337461,"sku":"9781787113282","price":27.5,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0612\/7193\/3106\/files\/9781787113282_f5ec2c97-cd34-4ec0-aa4a-517e755b2fa4.jpg?v=1786026153"},{"product_id":"9781787117938","title":"Porsche Boxster \u0026 Cayman","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe definitive history of the Porsche 981-series Boxsters and Caymans, with all major markets looked at in detail to cover all variants and to put the story into perspective. Illustrated throughout with contemporary photography sourced from the factory, this book serves as the perfect guide to this generation of open and closed cars in all its forms. Written by an acknowledged Porsche expert, with the full co-operation of the factory.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe definitive history of the 981-type Boxster and Cayman\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWritten with the full co-operation of the factory\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIllustrated throughout with contemporary photography\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe latest book in Veloce's acclaimed 'Boxster \u0026amp; Cayman' series\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAn ideal reference source for owners and enthusiasts\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAll major markets covered\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStandard paint and trim combinations for each year\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBoth road and racing models covered\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDetailed appendices providing production numbers, specs and range details\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWritten by an acknowledged expert on the marque\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Gardners","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":56305761321333,"sku":"9781787117938","price":55.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0612\/7193\/3106\/files\/9781787117938_5c1edc18-6628-444c-a9ec-fa6b587eff45.jpg?v=1786026211"},{"product_id":"9781845846534","title":"Mercedes-Benz SLK - R171 series 2004-2011","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe second in a series of SLK titles, this detailed volume presents the full history of the second generation 'Sportlich, Leicht und Kurz' - the SLK. With an introduction to the Mercedes-Benz marque and the preceding SLK model. The book then moves on to development of the R171, followed by details of all SLK R171 production models and the optional extras that were sold with them). Also included are comprehensive appendices describing year-by-year changes, engine specifications, standard colors, trim options and production numbers.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Gardners","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":56308414218613,"sku":"9781845846534","price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0612\/7193\/3106\/files\/9781845846534_cb11e9a6-f09a-4ad6-9ebc-864fe0d389be.jpg?v=1786029509"},{"product_id":"9781787112179","title":"Kawasaki W, H \u0026 Z - The Big Air-Cooled Machines","description":"The story of the air-cooled 'big' Kawasaki bikes in definitive detail, researched and written in Japan with the full co-operation of the factory. This series of models put the company on the map during the sixties and seventies, helping it to survive a difficult era that saw hundreds of Japanese motorcycle makers reduced to just four. Successful immediately, these models defended Kawasaki's honour on the tracks as well as in the showrooms, handing the company numerous world championship titles. The series was recently revived as part of a retro boom, and a new machine has been launched, delivering the same thrill and charm as its predecessors.","brand":"Gardners","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":56312877810037,"sku":"9781787112179","price":30.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0612\/7193\/3106\/files\/9781787112179_a14c46ab-aad0-4095-9b08-c2d0bb165a4e.jpg?v=1786026130"},{"product_id":"9781787117129","title":"Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution","description":"Researched and written with the full co-operation of the factory, here in definitive detail is the story of the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution (or ‘Lan Evo’) in its key role as a works rally car. Making its debut in 1993, it won the WRC title for its manufacturer in 1998, but also propelled Tommi Mäkinen to a string of victories in the driver's championship on numerous occasions.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e This book, continuing Veloce's highly-successful Rally Giants series, features all of the WRC events entered by the Lancer as a works machine, including detailed results (even down to registration numbers), and a fine selection of contemporary photography to bring the era back to life. An essential title for Mitsubishi and rallying enthusiasts alike.\u003cbr\u003e","brand":"Gardners","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":56312878072181,"sku":"9781787117129","price":19.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0612\/7193\/3106\/files\/9781787117129_c5b92c6b-d582-4ed2-bcbc-ea4bcbd28b04.jpg?v=1786026193"},{"product_id":"9781836440413","title":"Mercedes-Benz: the Amg Cars","description":"From small-time tuner to global automotive legend – this is the ultimate guide to the Mercedes-AMG story.   Explore the thrilling history of AMG, the performance brand that transformed Mercedes-Benz from a symbol of refined luxury into a fierce motorsport competitor and producer of some of the most desirable performance vehicles on the planet. Written by renowned automotive historian Brian Long, Mercedes-Benz: The AMG Cars charts the full journey from the brand’s unofficial beginnings to its modern-day status as an icon of high-performance engineering.   Discover how two ex-Mercedes engineers, Hans-Werner Aufrecht and Erhard Melcher, began handcrafting race engines in a garage, and how their tiny operation became a global performance powerhouse. With deep dives into key models like the AMG Hammer, groundbreaking moments in DTM and Group C racing, and the official tie-up with Mercedes-Benz that reshaped the brand’s future, this is a comprehensive year-by-year chronicle of a unique automotive evolution.   The book covers:The full story of AMG’s independent era and its 1990s transition into official Mercedes-Benz partnershipAll production AMG models from 1993 to 2024, presented in chronological chaptersLegendary engines, tuning techniques, and motorsport triumphsRare and obscure models alongside the most celebrated iconsHundreds of colour images, advertisements, and catalogue shots (over 660 visuals)With expert insights, rare images, and rich historical detail, this book is essential reading for Mercedes fans, collectors, and motoring enthusiasts alike.   Get ready to experience the full-throttle story of the three-letter badge that changed Mercedes-Benz forever.","brand":"Gardners","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":56369293394293,"sku":"9781836440413","price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0612\/7193\/3106\/files\/9781836440413_86c77eac-7702-4a9e-8101-84e380a6dad5.jpg?v=1786028176"},{"product_id":"the-book-of-the-mazda-mx-5-miata","title":"The Book of the Mazda Mx-5 Miata","description":"Researched and written in Japan, with the full co-operation of the factory, here, in definitive detail, is the complete story of the first generation of Mazda's MX-5 – the car that re-invented the affordable lightweight roadster, a species that many thought was extinct as the 1990s drew near.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Immediately successful, the MX-5, also known as the Miata or Eunos Roadster, spawned many imitators, but remains the world's biggest selling sports car. The series has now been in production for well over 20 years, and new generations continue to follow the concept of the original, much to the delight of fans and enthusiasts all over the world.","brand":"Gardners","offers":[{"title":"Paperback","offer_id":57688208900469,"sku":"9781787117778","price":25.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Hardback","offer_id":57487713010037,"sku":"9781787112186","price":30.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0612\/7193\/3106\/files\/9781787117778_29b57f4f-10f6-4951-b147-d11378dc3f79.jpg?v=1792686136"},{"product_id":"the-nissan-gt-r","title":"The Nissan Gt-R","description":"Nissan’s GT-R is more than just a car — it’s a legend. From its humble beginnings as a performance offshoot of the Skyline, to its domination on racetracks and drag strips around the world, the GT-R has earned its status as a true icon of Japanese engineering. For the first time, the entire story is told in one definitive volume.   This book offers the most complete chronicle yet of Nissan’s high-performance hero. Beginning with a brief look at Nissan and the Datsun brand, it delves into the earliest GT-Rs — models rarely seen outside of Japan, let alone covered in depth in English. From there, it tackles the famous R32, R33, and R34 generations in unprecedented detail, documenting their evolution, variants, and racing successes.   The final chapters are dedicated to the R35 — a model that redefined what a GT-R could be for the modern era. With production now winding down globally, this book comes at a pivotal moment, preserving a complete account of the GT-R legacy just as the curtain closes on its road-going story.   Filled with rare photos, insider insight, technical data, and motorsport achievements, The Nissan GT-R is a fitting tribute to one of the most important performance cars of our time.","brand":"Gardners","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":57490187387253,"sku":"9781836440451","price":75.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0612\/7193\/3106\/files\/9781836440451.jpg?v=1786442072"},{"product_id":"toyota-mr2-coupes-and-spyders","title":"Toyota Mr2 Coupes and Spyders","description":"Blending innovation, style, and sheer driving joy, the Toyota MR2 rewrote the rules for affordable sports cars.   From its debut as the SV-3 concept at the 1983 Tokyo Motor Show to its evolution into one of the world’s most iconic mid-engined models, the MR2 remains a touchstone for car enthusiasts globally. This book chronicles the full journey of the MR2 – including the Coupé, Roadster, and Spyder variants – in captivating detail.   With nearly 400 illustrations, many in full colour, Toyota MR2 Coupe and Spyders dives deep into the car’s development, performance, and cultural impact. Technical specifications and production data are covered extensively, offering an invaluable reference for collectors and restorers alike. Rare imagery and original promotional material add visual richness, placing the MR2 in its historical and cultural context. Brian Long also explores Toyota’s broader manufacturing and design history, showing how the MR2 emerged as a bold departure and a true innovator.   Take a nostalgic drive through automotive history – and rediscover a sports car icon.","brand":"Gardners","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":57490189058421,"sku":"9781836440956","price":25.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0612\/7193\/3106\/files\/9781836440956.jpg?v=1786442073"},{"product_id":"porsche-924","title":"Porsche 924","description":"\u003cp\u003eReplacing the 914 as the entry-level model, the new 924, with its front-mounted, water-cooled engine, represented a bold - some thought heretical - break with Porsche design tradition. Given its price and specification, the original 924 offered good performance allied to safe and sure-footed handling. The Turbo model, introduced at the end of 1978, gave to the 924 the sparkling performance expected of a Porsche. The 924 has an impressive record on the race tracks of the world; it made appearances in the Monte Carlo and Safari Rallies too, while the Carrera GT, then the GTS and GTR, kept alive the great Porsche tradition of proving its models in competition. Eventually, the 924 Turbo gave way to the 944, but the normally-aspirated 924 carried on into the summer of 1988, by which time it was fitted with the 2.5-litre engine from the 944, and known as the 924S. In the past the 924 was often underrated, but nowadays enthusiasts appreciate the car's performance, build quality, practicality and affordability. 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Not only did it achieve that in its very first season of motorsport, but went on to achieve lasting commercial success as a high-performance road car.   The first M4 cars were launched in 2014. Although they shared the same chassis\/platform and all their running gear with the new M3 Saloon, the new cars had completely fresh two-door bodyshells, with even more high-tech solutions. This highly desirable sportier model, in both coupé and convertible forms, along with model variants and special editions are explored in detail.   Fully illustrated throughout, with a lavish array of colour photographs and magnificently detailed cutaway drawings of mechanical equipment, this comprehensive and authoritative book is a must for all BMW M3 and M4 enthusiasts.   Originally penned by Graham Robson, this new edition was updated by fellow historian Brian Long, and includes all the recent models, developments and motorsport action.","brand":"Gardners","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":57536539001205,"sku":"9781836441618","price":39.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0612\/7193\/3106\/files\/9781836441618.jpg?v=1788186557"},{"product_id":"the-ultimate-book-of-the-mercedes-benz-sl-pagoda","title":"The Ultimate Book of the Mercedes-Benz Sl 'Pagoda'","description":"An iconic celebration of design, engineering, and automotive history.   The Mercedes-Benz W113, known worldwide as the Pagoda, remains one of the most admired classic sports cars ever produced. This comprehensive and beautifully illustrated hardback edition explores the full story of this landmark model, which first appeared in 1963 and continued production until 1971.   From its pioneering safety features and elegant design, shaped by Paul Bracq and Béla Barényi, to its lasting cultural significance, the Pagoda continues to inspire admiration among car enthusiasts and collectors. Rich period photography showcases the car’s timeless beauty, while in-depth research brings its history to life with detailed accounts of its development, engineering, and competition record.   The book includes extensive appendices covering technical data, build records, and production figures, making it both a fascinating read and an invaluable reference. Written by leading motoring expert Brian Long, who brings decades of experience and deep manufacturer insight, this is a definitive tribute to one of Mercedes-Benz’s most beloved creations.   Whether you’re passionate about cars, fascinated by design, or drawn to automotive history, this hardback edition offers a richly detailed and authoritative guide to the enduring legacy of the Mercedes-Benz SL Pagoda. Add this essential volume to your collection today.","brand":"Gardners","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":57680275341685,"sku":"9781836440147","price":100.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0612\/7193\/3106\/files\/9781836440147.jpg?v=1792423653"}],"url":"https:\/\/backstory.london\/collections\/author-brian-long.oembed","provider":"Backstory","version":"1.0","type":"link"}