Colin Chapman's Lotus ; The Early Years , The Elite etc.

[reb53]

Is this a book worth having ?
Getting a bit expensive but willing to bite the bullet if the consensus is that it is worthwhile, and not merely a re-hash of already published info.

Cheers,
Ralph.

[RogerFrench]

Well, it was published a long time ago, and didn't draw from other books.
I have most, if not all, of the Chapman books, and there are several better than this. Try Wayward Genius, or Inside the Innovator for example, by Lawrence and Ludwigsen respectively. Lotus the early years, by Peter Ross, gives great insight into the founding of the marque.
Jabby Crombac's book is over-sycophantic.

[richardcox_lotus]

It?s ok, as it gives interesting insight into the US Elite disasters. As Roger said, it?s not a rehash of other stories.

Regards
Richard

[trw99]

If you mean the Robin Read book, it is generally considered to be one of the better Lotus books, since he worked there, alongside Colin Chapman and he reports on his experience in a detailed, clear and readable style. There is a good deal of original information in his book too.

Tim

[reb53]

Thanks Guys.
I do mean the Robin Read book.
It's now, ( hopefully), on its way to me as a shop here in NZ had it, and I didn't have to contend with heavy duty postage......
Also added "Wayward Genius" to the list.

Thanks again,
Cheers,
Ralph.

[alan.barker]

Here's an Elite in NZ
Alan

[seniorchristo]

I thought this book was excellent. It also covers much of the Elan development.

[reb53]

I'm working my way through it and so far have decided it was money well spent.
Lots of new, ( to me anyway), stuff from someone who was there.

Never realised the Elite could be so difficult, glad I went down the Elan road instead.