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).
Competitor intelligence on vehicles for the upcoming Le Mans race and Paris Motor Show.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 27a\1\ Scan321 | |
| Date | 19th September 1935 | |
| COPY. Rolls-Royce Ltd. Derby. Hs{Lord Ernest Hives - Chair}/Rm.{William Robotham - Chief Engineer} SHOWROOMS. Sr.23/MLG,19.9.35. I had lunch with Charles Faroux the day before yesterday, and he gave me some rather interesting information which I think I should communicate you. First of all, that the 24 hours races at Le Mans next year is going to be one of the most contested races of years past. Messrs. Mercedes are officially entering three of their 5 litre touring model, which I understand are going to be capable of nearly 200 kms. per hour. Several Alfa-Romeos have been entered with the old type Grand Prix engines fitted to the touring chassis, which I understand is going to be standard from the Show onwards, which will also be capable of about 200 kms. Hotchkiss is following. Delahaye is making a big effort, etc., etc. It is more than probable that there will be several Bugattis capable of 200 kms. per hour. According to the very latest information, the Motor Show is going to reveal the latest type 57 which is the double camshaft 3.3 touring model guaranteed to do 160 kms. an hour at Montlhery. This car is going to have the following improvements:- Rubber mounted engine. Different exhaust system. Different pistons. Dynamically balanced camshafts. Much lower and more flexible springs. De Ram shock absorbers fitted to the front. Over and above this, they are putting on the market another car which they are going to call their type competition, which should be a small 2/3 seater and much lower than the above mentioned 3.3, although it will be fitted with the same engine with a higher compression ratio, etc. and guaranteed to do 200 kms. at Montlhery. They are also increasing their discount to Agents on this chassis by 10%, making a total discount to the Agents of 30%. With a view of all the above-mentioned information, as regards Alfa-Romeo, Mercedes, etc., you may think it over before entering a car at Le Mans unless it is really capable of same speeds. I think you ought to come over to Paris during the Motor Show and get a line on these Mercedes, and Bugattis. P.T.O. | ||