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).
Quality of a 15-HP Humber car and comparing it with other small cars like the Wolseley.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 128\3\ scan0239 | |
| Date | 7th March 1921 | |
| W/S X.1130 C. from Hs.{Lord Ernest Hives - Chair} Hsl/LC7.3.21. X.1525 X.1130 RE. 15-HP HUMBER CAR. X3923 I realise that we could not deal with Messrs.Humber direct with reference to the above Car but I thought we could have an agent who could pose as the owner of the Car in order to satisfy ourselves that the 15.HP Humber car which we have is of their standard quality. One anticipates that the makers of cheap cars cannot afford to spend much time on testing, and, therefore, there is a certain amount of luck in obtaining a good specimen of small car. Personally, I think it is a pity that the Humber Car was bought in such a rush. I feel certain it is possible to buy a very much better example of small car than is represented in the 15-HP Humber Car which we have. X.1130 The 15-HP Wolseley Car may be better. It has the advantage of being a post-war design and the arrangement of the engine with over-head valves and, I believe, push rods, is similar to what Mr. Royce proposes to use. I recommend that, if there is no chance of getting any improvements made to the Humber Car, we sell it and let somebody (FN. possibly) go round and try all the cars and buy the best small car which is obtainable. I consider that the Sales Department should know exactly what standard of quality and efficiency can be obtained on a small car. x 3923 I shall be calling at Conduit Street on Wednesday with 6.EX Car on my way to Mr. Royce - I hope to see you. Hs.{Lord Ernest Hives - Chair} | ||