Fittingly, Ford Cosworth DFV: The Inside Story of F1's Greatest Engine was launched in the week that the DFV celebrates its 40th anniversary. Our little lunchtime launch party was accompanied by some celebratory fizz provided by my wine-columnist partner Paula.

Opinion seemed generally positive - on the book, I mean, not the wine - and I even bagged a couple of early sales. Will the book be as long-lasting as the engine? I can only hope...