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).
Analysis of vehicle weights, comparing different models and components for potential savings.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 21\6\ Scan210 | |
| Date | 4th March 1935 | |
| To E.{Mr Elliott - Chief Engineer} from Hs{Lord Ernest Hives - Chair}/Rm.{William Robotham - Chief Engineer} c. to Wor.{Arthur Wormald - General Works Manager} c. to By.{R.W. Bailey - Chief Engineer} x4217 Hs{Lord Ernest Hives - Chair}/Rm.{William Robotham - Chief Engineer}11/KW.4.3.35. Weights. We have now added the Terraplane weights to our analysis. These are interesting in that they confirm to a large extent the points which the Pontiac comparison emphasizes. Reiterating these, they are that we are unnecessarily heavy on our exhaust systems, tool kits, petrol tanks, brake transmission, propellor shaft and steering. The Bentley frame is surprisingly lighter than the Essex frame. They save 50 lbs. by using a smaller wheel and larger tyre. We are investigating the possibility of doing this without spoiling the road holding of the car. It is interesting to note that in spite of using no aluminium whatever and the fact that they have an engine of the same capacity as the Bentley, they are 120 lbs. lighter than we are on the gearbox and engine unit combined. We note that you already have particulars of the engine unit, which is remarkably short. The gearbox is of course astonishingly compact, but it must be appreciated that it is a 3-speed, and has no synchromesh devices. Nevertheless, we believe that we can learn something from it, and Hardy is examining it. On the question of weight, it is evident that it is illogical to use the same size shock absorber on the Bentley as the Phantom if the minimum weight is desired. On the other hand, it is difficult from a cost point of view to produce two different sizes of shock absorber. We are making investigations to see whether we can make any suggestions whereby weight can be saved without putting up production costs enormously. | ||