A new entry to the Haynes Great Marques series, at first glance this book looks rather like a pot-boiler. However, while not exactly definitive, it does provide a very good introduction to the marque. There’s not much in the way of motor sport coverage, but there is enough to keep most Lotus enthusiasts busily reading.

Panels detailing buying advice (along with a brief but well-informed road-test) are included with each road car covered, and these should be especially welcome to Lotus newbies. The only real disappointment are the colour photographs — mostly standard press shots — all of which look very washed-out.

by Russell Hayes;  £80; Review by Allan Walton