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).
Summary of road test observations for an 8-cylinder 'Silver Phantom', covering mountain passes, cooling, steering, and brakes.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 97\3\ scan0233 | |
| Date | 11th July 1939 | |
| -2- It was fortunate that the weather was about as hot as could be expected at this time of the year, which increased the severity of the tests. Over 2,000 miles were covered in 5.5 days of motoring, the distance, however, gives no indication of the type of roads utilised. As an example, in one day's run, the following passes were negotiated:- Ofen (7,070 ft) Fluela (7,890 ") Forcola (6,000 ") Umbrail (8,200 ") Stelvio (9,050 ") Costalunga (5,750") Pordoi (8,000 ft) Falzarego (6,950 ") The following is a summary of the general points observed on the 8-cyl. 'Silver Phantom'. COOLING. In the mountains the water temperatures did not rise above 92°C. On the Autostrada 86°C. No water was added throughout the trip. The maximum oil temperature was 107°C on the Autostrada at the conclusion of the continuous all-out run of 50 miles with an atmospheric temperature of 32°C. We consider that this car is adequately cooled both with regard to petrol and oil. STEERING. Directional stability good, lock adequate. It was not found necessary to reverse on any bend XXXXXXXX not partially blocked by snow. Actually, during the whole run it was only necessary to reverse three times.on corners. BRAKES. This car is fitted with hydraulic front brakes. At the beginning of the mileage there was a shudder on the pedal when the brakes were applied, and the pressure required was also noticeable heavy. There was also too much rear braking. With use, however, the servo efficiency improved, and the distribution became more reasonable, until at the finish of the run the brakes were quite good. | ||