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).
The test drive and comparison of suspension performance on various car models.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 67a\1\ scan0006 | |
| Date | 15th July 1924 | |
| To CJ. from BJ. Copies to Hs.{Lord Ernest Hives - Chair} PN.{Mr Northey} V8410 PRIVATE. Mr. Hives arrived at Gerrards Cross at 8-a.m., with two standard 40/50 long chassis fitted with touring and limousine bodies. We first tried the touring car, which had back springs similar to our demonstration car No. 107-MG. My impression was that the springing was considerably harsher than our standard. The back portion was not upholstered, but I sat on a cushion at the back of the car, and it gave me the impression of considerable pitching. The general effect, however, was considerably better than on the E.A.C.II car which we tried a few days previously. I felt that I could not give any definite report until the back of the car had been upholstered, and one could try it properly. It is to be upholstered this week, in order that we may try it properly over the week-end. I should like to have an extended run, to find out whether the springing discomfort increases or decreases as one becomes more used to riding in the car. We then tried 107-MG, and one immediately felt the difference in floating over the road without harshness. We then tried the closed car, and after a very few minutes, I remarked to Hs.{Lord Ernest Hives - Chair} that if Rolls-Royce delivered such a car to me, as a customer, I should immediately write to them and ask them to take it back, as it was too uncomfortable to ride in. Hs.{Lord Ernest Hives - Chair} agreed. Hs.{Lord Ernest Hives - Chair} will compare this car with our demonstrating landaulet and ascertain whether the back springs are the same. I do not think any customer would put up with the discomfort of the springs on this car as it is at present. Hs.{Lord Ernest Hives - Chair} brought with him two Derby men, one of whom had driven the open car that we were trying 1,000 miles in France. He remarked that the present springing would be unsatisfactory in France, as going at a high speed, the springs would be too weak. Hs.{Lord Ernest Hives - Chair} mentioned that we should expect such springs to | ||