Motor-car principles; the gasoline automobile

By Roger B. Whitman

A plume of petrol vapour drifts across a quiet workshop, where the hum of an early engine signals the dawn of a new era. In this evocative setting, the intricacies of gasoline automobile engineering are revealed with clarity and purpose, guiding readers through the mechanical heart of the internal combustion engine at a time when such knowledge was both novel and transformative. The narrative unfolds with a craftsman's precision, blending detailed explanations of car maintenance fundamentals and automotive engineering basics with the palpable excitement of early twentieth-century innovation. Every chapter immerses the reader in the world of early automotive technology, illuminating the design principles and mechanical ingenuity that shaped the first generations of motor-cars. This work stands apart for its careful balance of technical depth and accessibility, making it as engaging for those new to beginner car mechanics as it is essential for collectors and enthusiasts of automotive history. The writing demystifies the operation of vintage cars, offering insights into their construction and the delicate interplay of moving parts, while never losing sight of the broader cultural significance these vehicles held. The book's perspective on automobile design principles and engine explanation captures the spirit of an age when each turn of the crank and adjustment of the carburettor was an act of discovery. This book was out of print for decades and is now republished by Alpha Editions. It has been restored for today's and future generations. This edition is not just a reprint - it's a collector's item and a cultural treasure. For anyone captivated by the evolution of motor-car mechanics or the heritage of early 20th century cars, this volume offers a rare, authentic window into the origins of automotive engineering.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 9374591553
• ISBN13: 9789374591550
• Release Date: May 2026
• Publisher: Alpha Edition
• Length: 156 Pages
• Weight: 0.48 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.4" x 6.0" x 9.0"