Book excerpt: The 1950s saw the automobile come of age, with some of the most imaginative developments in car design asserting a new confidence in the car as an accessible symbol of freedom. One of the great eras of automobile production, the '50s saw cars such as the Chevrolet Corvette, Ford Thunderbird, and Jaguar XK120 hit the roads, as well as the more glamorous MGA, Mercedes 190SL, and the Triumph TR3. Hot Cars of the '50s celebrates the best cars of the decade, providing a detailed look at more than sixty of the greatest and most stylish automobiles from around the world. All the great names are covered, including Aston Martin, Bentley, BMW, Cadillac, Chevrolet, Fiat, Jaguar, MG, Oldsmobile, Pontiac, and Rolls-Royce. Illustrated with specially commissioned photography, each car is examined from all angles in close-up detail. Specifications are provided for each machine, including performance statistics, engine type, transmission, special features, running gear, and dimensions. The book also takes a close look under the hood, examining the chassis and suspension as well as the design of the engine. Finally, the book tracks the production milestones of each car and marks refinements and developments in styling and performance. Packed with information and great photos, this volume is a must for all lovers of the classic and stylish machines of the 1950s. Book jacket.