Description
By: Michael Frostick .
The spectacular growth of the Rootes Group Competition Department since its modest beginnings with a 2-litre Sunbeam in 1946 is clear evidence that fiercely competitive motoring can bring two great benefits to the manufacturer: the resounding publicity which rewards successful marques and teams at home and abroad, and the unrivalled testing conditions provided by gruelling international rallies.
The Rootes teams—which have included Stirling Moss, Sheila van Damm, Mike Hawthorn and many other famous names—have had sweeping successes in every type of event and have brought home trophies from all over the world, while searching analysis of the hard- pressed cars' performance gives information available in no other way, and leads directly to many improvements and modifications in standard production models.
Michael Frostick, well-known rally driver and motor sport expert, has written with the unreserved co-operation of Rootes a complete history of the Competition Department, its triumphs, surprises and disappointments. For the first time, Rootes have allowed publication of their own carefully-programmed preparation schedules, which set out in specific detail the officially recognized engine, bodywork and instrument modifications permitted Rootes Group cars, rally briefing schedules and service arrangements.
Never before has a great, internationally renowned motoring organization revealed so many of the secrets of competition driving. Here is a unique manual which no rally driver can afford to be without and which every serious day-to- day driver will read to advantage.
- Works modification schedules for competitions
- Specifications of all Rootes Group models
- Advice on food, sleep and car comfort
- Team briefing and servicing arrangements