Buy Spyders & Silhouettes

The decade from 1972 to 1981 included two unique phases in world-class sports car racing. Three-liter Prototype cars dominated at first, adapting technological innovations developed for Formula One by Ferrari, Matra and other marques. But in 1976 new rules brought the Special Production, or “Silhouette” class to the forefront, allowing Porsche, BMW and others to add upgraded engines, aerodynamics and tires to race cars resembling conventional production models. In Spyders & Silhouettes, renowned racing historian János Wimpffen uses hundreds of rare photographs to cover both periods in all of their remarkable diversity.

In a year-by-year account of the races included in the World Manufacturers and World Sports Car championships, Spyders & Silhouettes brings the complex and competitive world of 1970s sports car racing vividly to life. In addition to the great manufacturers, top drivers and classic long-distance races, it also profiles the specialty constructors, privateers and dedicated amateurs who remained an essential part of the sport throughout the decade.