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).
'Secret' memo detailing a positive test drive review of an 8-Cylinder High Power Unit car after a 190-mile run.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 109\4\ scan0081 | |
| Date | 9th May 1939 | |
| C O P Y Secret [Handwritten Initials: Rm.{William Robotham - Chief Engineer}] To: Sg.{Arthur F. Sidgreaves - MD} from Mx.{John H Maddocks - Chief Proving Officer} c. to Hs.{Lord Ernest Hives - Chair} c. to By.{R.W. Bailey - Chief Engineer} c. to Da.{Bernard Day - Chassis Design} c. to RHC.{R. H. Coverley - Production Engineer} c. to HPS.{Horace Percy Smith - Experimental Factory Mgr} c. to Da{Bernard Day - Chassis Design}/Ev.{Ivan Evernden - coachwork} c. to Da{Bernard Day - Chassis Design}/Jnr.{Charles L. Jenner} 30.G.VII 8-Cylinder High Power Unit I tried this car to-day. It is an excellent proposition. The acceleration, performance, road holding, and controllability are very good indeed. It handles infinitely better than the P.III, which is like a lorry by comparison. It is more controllable and gives a better ride than Wraith, and is somewhat similar to B.V for general ease of control and handling. The engine is smooth, quiet, and free from periods throughout the range. After a run of 190 miles, which was done in a very short time, one cannot help but be enthusiastic about its prospects of making an excellent motor car. [Signature] | ||