Massive Ferrari V8 shootout, BMW's hottest roadster and 50 years of Sunbeam Tiger in a magazine jam-packed with classics

| 3 Jul 2014

The brand-new August issue of C&SC (on UK newsstands 3 July)  kicks off with a huge test of Maranello's mid-engined V8s, where we pit the 308, 328, 348 and F355 in a no-holds-barred B-road battle. We trace the evolution of the concept, testing each car in full and getting the complete inside scoop from their owners. We tell you how much to spend, what to look out for, and which of these beautiful sports cars is best for you.

Classic & Sports Car August issue

For life at a more sedate pace, we've got a roundup of the ultimate 1950s Bristols, the 404, 405 and an Abbott 405 drophead. Simon Charlesworth charts the firm's change in design direction, which led to the creation of these stunning gentlemen's expresses. Perfect for when an Aston Martin just won't cut it at the golf club.

Classic & Sports Car August issue

Trackside, Mick Walsh gets a rare ride in Christian Lautenschlager's 1914 French Grand Prix-winning Mercedes – the last survivor of three Mercedes that were campaigned in the last Grand Prix before the outbreak of the First World War. You may have seen it tanking up the hill at the Goodwood Festival of Speed; now find out about the fascinating journey that led to it being fit for the track once again.

Classic & Sports Car August issue

The Sunbeam Tiger is celebrated in its 50th year as we drive a fully sorted example belonging to the club's competition secretary. Find out the complete story of this V8-powered stunner, from inception to production, plus what it's like to push it to the limit. There's much more to this perfect all-rounder than the build sheet would lead to you believe, as Greg MacLeman discovers.

Classic & Sports Car August issue

Back firmly in the realm of modern classics is the wonderful BMW Z8. It's hard to believe the Bavarian firm's V8 roadster first broke cover 17 years ago, but not to see why values are now skyrocketing. Richard Heseltine finds out why the classic world is clamouring for a piece of the 507-inspired roadster, and rediscovers the traits that make it far from a mere pastiche of a past master.

James Page drives a piece of Britain's rich motoring heritage in Belgium, the Vauxhall D-type. Our man tours Ypres, where he gets to grips not only with Vauxhall's fabulous staff car, but also the weight of history heavy on its leaf springs. From Grand Prix-winning chauffeurs to The Autocar's reports from the front, this story has it all. 

Classic & Sports Car August issue

NSU's Prinz family offers a fantastic route into quirky German classics, with much greater practicality than more expensive bubble cars. Martin Buckley tests the range in full, from the chic early Sport Prinz through to the Prinz 4 and hot TT variant. There's also an NSU Quickly 50cc moped, plus a TT special that owes more to Hethel than it does to Neckarsulm – find out more in this month's issue.

You've probably heard about James Hull's £100m car collection in the national press – now get the real story from C&SC. James Elliott is offered exclusive access to the collection, with the remarkable man who assembled it as his personal guide. We've got all the pictures and all the highlights.

Classic & Sports Car August issue

In news, we have full coverage of the Villa d'Este Concours d'Elegance, Tatton Park and the Bromley Pageant's resurgence, plus Maserati's stunning new Modena display and a unique Mercedes streamliner.

All your favourite columnists have been busier than ever; James Elliott writes about meeting Lord Hesketh, while Buckley takes in more waifs and strays. Our classic sagas continue with Martin Port's Land-Rover throwing its toys out of the pram and the Jensen Interceptor gets some much-needed TLC.

If you're in the market for a summer classic, you could do worse than a Jaguar MkX or 420G. Fortunately, everything you need to know before getting out your wallet has been documented in this issue, from bodywork to mechanics, and even interior trim. Don't start the search before you've read it in full!

Before you get stuck into the magazine, why not download one of our free wallpapers? Be sure to read the terms and conditions first.

To download our Ferrari wallpaper click here

Classic & Sports Car August issue

Or click her to see a collection of '50s Bristols

Classic & Sports Car August issue

Click here for BMW's Z8 is all its glory

Classic & Sports Car August issue

For a classic V8 – the Sunbeam Tiger – click here

Classic & Sports Car August issue

Finally, click here to see the Vauxhall D-type thunder through Flanders

Classic & Sports Car August issue