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).
Developing a new 12-cylinder engine and the distinct chassis and suspension requirements for Bentley models compared to Rolls-Royce models.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 148\5\ scan0094 | |
| Date | 19th November 1935 | |
| -3- Hs{Lord Ernest Hives - Chair}/Rm.{William Robotham - Chief Engineer}3/KW.19.11.35. With regard to the new engine unit for the 20/25 and Bentley, we feel convinced that from every technical aspect the right unit is the 12-cylinder. We can see a number of fundamental design features where money can be saved on a 12 when compared with the 20/25 unit we are at present producing, apart from general simplification of construction. We are sure that by co-operation a 12-cylinder can be developed that will not cost appreciably more than the existing 20/25 unit, particularly if it received the credit for making a three-speed box possible. The unit would not, of course, be expected to follow the SpectreCodename for Phantom III, which has been designed with the ultimate in efficiency in view, and where cost has been a secondary consideration. We should expect the 4¼ litre 12 to have simple cast-iron blocks, side by side connecting rods, duplex Stromberg carburetter, Borg & Beck clutch, and simplified timing gears. Ford has just announced a small 12-cylinder Lincoln, he does not rely on the Vee Eight for his quality car. So far, therefore, the suggested programme has with one complete chassis and an additional gearbox and engine unit catered entirely for the 40/50 and 20/25 and provided a unit and gearbox for the Bentley. Bentley. We consider that the Bentley chassis and suspension comes into a different category to the two Rolls-Royce models because - (1) Performance heads the list of desirable attributes instead of comfort. Maximum spring flexibility is unnecessary. (2) There is no question of carrying a body with a partition or occasional seats, therefore the total laden weight to be catered for is very definitely less than on the two larger cars. hence, this chassis requires a different frame, suspension, steering, rear axle and brake design. | ||