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).
Vehicle road test report detailing handling, ride quality, and engine performance data.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 127\5\ scan0070 | |
| Date | 7th October 1940 | |
| - 2 - STEERING. Over-steers with all tyre pressures tried - otherwise good - steady and no joggles. Steering column together with the front end of the car generally is very steady - Monocoque? SUSPENSION. Ride poor - usual small car characteristics. One would not suspect independent front suspension on this car. Speedometer needle is very steady and very quiet - we could learn something from this. BODY. Considering the size of the car, the accommodation provided for four people is good. We would point here, that the engine period 26-28 MPH. coincides with the axle period at the same speed, and this sets up a rear body panel vibration which is very annoying. As usual with most massed production vehicles, this car appears to have been turned out without being vetted by a tester. We give herewith a specification of the car and actual performance figures taken on the road. ENGINE. B.H.P. 1000 RPM 2000 RPM 3000 RPM 4000 RPM. (Peak) 8 18 27 31. Max speed alleged Top gear - 60 MPH Actual - 56 MPH. 2nd gear - 40 MPH Top Gear Performance. Alleged. 10-30 MPH. - 13 secs. Actual 10-20 MPH - 6.87 secs 30-50 MPH - 19 " 20-30 MPH - 6.73 " 30-40 MPH - 8.47 " 40-50 MPH - 12.0 " (continued) | ||