The Pontons may have been Mercedes-Benz's bread-and-butter models of the 1950s, but they were vitally important in establishing the marque as a significant player around the globe. Alongside the saloons that made Mercedes famous world-wide for long-lasting and economical taxis, there were exotic two-door cabriolet and coupé derivatives, and the cars' basic structure was made available too for conversion into ambulances, pick-ups, estate cars and hearses. Not always appreciated is that the 190SL sports model was also derived from the engineering of the Ponton range. The Ponton Mercedes and the 190SL have long enjoyed a strong enthusiast following around the world. Here is their story, from their creation at a time when Mercedes was emerging from the devastation of war, though their success during the German Economic Miracle of the 1950s, to their final days in the early 1960s alongside the first of the 'Fintail' models that would eventually replace them. No enthusiast of these widely respected cars will want to be without this book.

This book examines the Diablo in detail, starting with Ferruccio Lamborghini's objectives for his eponymous supercar company and his diktat that it eschew racing, which would go on to heavily influence the Diablo's design and development, even though the founder had long since left the company. Each of the model variants is examined in detail, as are the socio-politico-economic factors that that made designing and developing the Diablo imperative and unavoidable , and which forced the Sant' Agata works into making evolutionary modifications as well as introducing radical innovations over the course of the Diablo's long reign. Written by two passionate and deeply knowledgeable owners who for over two decades have run two wedge shaped, spaceframe, Bizzarrini-engined Lamborghini flagships, this book also delves into pre-purchase considerations, the Diablo's known foibles and the value of a pre-purchase inspection, before discussing the buying process, the trials and tribulations of periodic servicing, preventative maintenance, and garaging, after which it shares the sheer elation and exhilaration of actually piloting a Diablo.

Discover the full creative and scientific potential of plant photography This practical book explains how to take stunning, professional photos of plants in every guise. It introduces new subjects that have previously been largely ignored, and explains how to develop your technical and aesthetic photographic skills to take reliably impressive shots. With over 250 breath-taking photos taken around the world, it covers both location photography as well as the controlled conditions of the studio, and shows how to use both natural and artificial light. This inspiring book pushes the horizons of plant photography for today's photographer, embracing the latest technology and ideas, so you can take the best photos competently and confidently.

A comprehensive guide to growing tulips from bulbs, with expert advice on the most rewarding varieties. A Gardener's Guide to Tulips is a practical guide helping growers understand the tulip's lifecycle and ensure success in its cultivation. Alongside practical advice, the book also includes wider information for interested growers and admirers of tulips. With over 300 photos, a wealth of varieties and planting situations are considered, as well as case studies of gardens where tulips have been used to great effect. It will interest experienced gardeners and inspire those who may not have attempted to grow these beautiful plants before. Readers will find information on: Taxonomy and types, Cultivating and caring for tulips, Propagation and breeding, Designing with tulips in the garden, Tulip varieties, both current and past selections, Gardens and places of interest for tulips, What can be learnt from commercial growing, The fascinating history of tulips.

This book reveals the full history of the first generation Mercedes-Benz SLK, covering in detail the German, US, UK, Australian and Japanese markets. The perfect book to grace a Mercedes-Benz enthusiasts’ library shelf, it’s the definitive record of the model illustrated with stunning photographs.

"When I see an Alfa Romeo, I lift my hat." Henry Ford Few things ignite such reverence as a classic car. With more than 250 iconic models from the 1940s to the 1980s, photographed from every angle, this title is a glorious celebration of the stars in the classic car firmament. Edited by award-winning automotive journalist Giles Chapman, Classic Car brings you the story of more than 20 great marques, including household names Bentley, Mercedes, Ferrari, Cadillac, and Aston Martin. Its lavish photography reveals every detail in close-ups of models that range from the 1940s giant two-ton Daimler DE36, which ferried royals about in style, through to sleek Ferraris from the 1980s capable of smashing the 200mph barrier. It puts you in the driving seat of such icons as the Chevrolet Corvette, the Ford Thunderbird, and the Mercedes 300SL and brings you the designers of these amazing machines and the story of their manufacturers. Whether you dream of owning one of these super-cool cars or you are a collector already, Classic Car is set to become a treasured favorite.