The petrol car changed the nature of travel and brought joy, exhilaration and convenience to millions.
But as part of Britain s fight against man-made climate change, cars powered by fossil fuels are being phased out in favour of electric vehicles and other forms of travel.
It means that, from 2030, new petrol and diesel vehicles will be banned.
So in timely fashion, automotive writer Lance Cole has revealed in his new book some of the most iconic classic cars - from a 1905 racer which broke the world speed record, to the much-loved 1990s Volvo 850 R.
Classic Car Gallery - A Journey Through Motoring History, which is published by Pen & Sword, shows off a treasure trove of motoring beauties.