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).
Test report comparing the back seat ride and features of experimental long-wheelbase cars 36-EX and 38-EX.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 132\3\ scan0225 | |
| Date | 29th January 1937 | |
| Sg.{Arthur F. Sidgreaves - MD} from Rm.{William Robotham - Chief Engineer} Hs.{Lord Ernest Hives - Chair} c. to E.{Mr Elliott - Chief Engineer} c. to By.{R.W. Bailey - Chief Engineer} 1122 Rm.{William Robotham - Chief Engineer}8/AP.29.1.37. LONG WHEEL BASE P.3. We have carried out tests comparing the back seat riding of 38-EX. with our Experimental limousine 36-EX. The most interesting feature about these tests was that the improved ride in the back seat obtained from the Long Wheel Base car, was completely masked by the difference between the rear seat cushions in the two cars. 36-EX. was fitted with a Dunlop rubber cushion, and under actual driving conditions this appeared to be superior to the normal type of cushion fitted in 38-EX. in every respect. This was particularly noticeable over hump-backed bridges, where with the normal cushion the passengers were flung up to the roof. The comparison was so striking that we think it could with advantage, be repeated in London. With similar cushions the Long Wheel Base car gave the better ride, but the difference was not as marked as we had anticipated. The general handling of this car, considering its dimensions was very satisfactory. Park Wards are to be commended on the body weight. According to our figures the long chassis weighed 38.0.5 against 37.0.5 for the standard chassis, and yet 38-EX. completed weighed only 1cwt. 28lbs. more than 36-EX. our standard experimental limousine i.e. a longer and wider body for a weight increase of only about 28lbs. In conclusion, this seems to us to be a very satisfactory experiment, and 38-EX. would appear to be an excellent answer to the prevailing demand for more room in the luxury type of car. Rm.{William Robotham - Chief Engineer} | ||