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).
Summary of mechanical improvements to components including the clutch, steering, frame, gearbox, axle, and brakes.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 160\5\ scan0079 | |
| Date | 17th December 1940 guessed | |
| -3- A raised crown piston has been standardised, which reduces detonation to the minimum. CLUTCH. A semi-centrifugal clutch is now fitted. This reduces the pedal pressure and gives a smoother take up. STEERING. This has been lightened without materially lowering the overall ratio. The lock has been improved. FRAME. This has been enormously increased in stiffness which, besides increasing the durability of the body, contributes towards the better suspension and road holding. GEARBOX. This has been completely re-designed to produce simplification and reduce weight. REAR AXLE. The opportunity has been taken to strengthen up the rear axle, so that it will stand more abuse than previously. BRAKES. Owing to the fact that the front suspension parts are more rigid than the conventional front axle and leaf springs, it has been found possible to increase the proportion of front braking without causing the car to deviate from a straight course when a violent stop is made. The Bentley V with standardised body has a top speed which is the same as previous Bentleys, i.e. under favourable road conditions between 95 and 100 m.p.h. | ||