From the Rolls-Royce experimental archive: a quarter of a million communications from Rolls-Royce, 1906 to 1960's. Documents from the Sir Henry Royce Memorial Foundation (SHRMF).
Letter from Bernard Hopps to W. A. Robotham providing feedback on a Bentley test run and suggesting modifications for touring.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 27\2\ Scan071 | |
| Date | 1st August 1933 | |
| TELEPHONE: 15 DUNCHURCH. STATION: DUNCHURCH, L & N.W. x17785 THURLASTON, NR RUGBY. W. A.{Mr Adams} Robotham Esq., Rolls-Royce Limited, D E R B Y. 1 August 1933. Dear Robotham, I feel that I did not thank you sufficiently for the trouble you took in taking me a run on the Bentley yesterday; but I want to tell you how much I appreciated your giving me the opportunity of trying this car. I need hardly say that I am intensely interested, as from my point of view - I think you have got the finest motor car that has yet been produced. If I order one of these I should want it for Continental touring, and I hope that you will make provision for the fitting of two spare wheels, as I do think these are essential for abroad. If these were carried at the rear I presume that the additional weight would be an advantage in eliminating rear wheel spin, which is the only criticism I have to make on yesterday's run. On my return in September I hope that you will give me the opportunity of a more extended run on one of these cars with your standard sports saloon body. In carrying the spare wheels at the rear the accommodation for luggage is greatly restricted in the boot, and the throwing of suit cases on the rear seat is not a satisfactory method of carrying luggage on a fast car on a long run. You may be interested in a simple fitment which I have incorporated in my own cars, namely a wooden luggage platform, which is securely bolted to the body side members, and which is fitted in place of the rear seat cushion. This luggage board is provided with strap eyes, and will accommodate 5 suit cases, ample for two people for a month's touring. Carried inside the car like this the luggage is kept clean, it is readily accessible, can be locked up when the car is left standing, and the weight is in the right place. For all I know the idea may be an old one, but I give it to you for what it is worth. Sincerely yours, Bernard Hopps. | ||