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).
Road test report on a 6-Cylinder Terraplane, detailing its performance and handling characteristics.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 21\6\ Scan157 | |
| Date | 2nd May 1934 | |
| COPY. X6217 6-Cylinder Terraplane. The engine starts up readily without any operation of controls, is very quiet, and runs fairly steadily at approx. 200 r.p.m. On the road there is an absence of engine vibrations due to the flexible mounting. This is more noticeable as the engine is not smooth or free from vibration. These can be felt on the change speed lever and on the pedals. The exhaust is pronounced and not as quiet as the Bentley. Fan noise is noticable. Clutch very smooth engagement. STEERING. This is very good, free from joggles, is selective and stable. More rake is desirable. GEARBOX. Is very good for absence of slack in all gears. Ease of change is not good. Clutch seems to cling for quick changes. Change speed lever vibrates too much. BRAKES. Too much pedal load is required. Distribution is good. Braking comes on too suddenly. SPRINGING. Very soft and altogether too light for English roads. The car gets out of control on corners, due to pitching and rolling. It requires more damping on the rebound. BODY. Is free from booms and generally very good. REAR AXLE - quiet. The car is a delight to drive after the fussiness of the Phantom engine, clanking, body noises, steering joggles and harsh riding. Hs{Lord Ernest Hives - Chair}/G.W.Hancock. | ||