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).
Specification sheet for the Frazer-Nash-B.M.W. Type 326 Five-Seater Drop-Head Cabriolet Model.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 126\3\ scan0116 | |
| Date | 5th April 1938 guessed | |
| THE FRAZER-NASH-B.M.W. 16·2-H.P. (9ft. 6in. WHEELBASE) TYPE 326 FIVE-SEATER DROP-HEAD CABRIOLET MODEL The cabriolet model on the Type 326 long chassis is a magnificent example of convertible coachwork. An outstanding feature of the chassis design is that the rear axle suspension is by torsion bars, resulting in what may almost be termed uncanny road-holding and cornering capabilities, particularly on wet or greasy road surfaces. Generally speaking, drop-head bodies of the coupé type have acquired a bad reputation—their faults include hood flap, body noises and failure to be absolutely draught and weatherproof. The true cabriolet, on the other hand, owing to the strength and clever design of the folding mechanism, the sturdiness of the windscreen pillars and hood irons, the method of clamping the head on to the screen, the heavy padding and interior lining, does not possess these faults, while the absolute rigidity of the Frazer-Nash-B.M.W. chassis frame is a guarantee against rattles and squeaks developing even with the hardest use. ENGINE 2-litre ; bore 66 mm. x stroke 96 mm. ; capacity 1,971 c.c. ; compression ratio 6 to 1. Annual Tax £12 15s. 6 cylinders. O.H. valves operated by pushrods. Solex carburetter. Four-bearing crankshaft. Ignition by coil and distributor. Cooling by impeller pump and fan. Hand-operated radiator shutters. Single dry-plate clutch, 4-speeds gearbox—ratios : Top, 4·8 to 1 ; 3rd, 7·3 to 1 ; 2nd, 12·2 to 1 and 1st, 17·6 to 1. Free-wheel 1st and 2nd, synchromesh 3rd and top. Transmission by propeller shaft to spiral bevel final drive. CHASSIS Frame of closed box-section, three cross-members, integral with body floor. Front wheels are independently sprung (transverse spring below) and steered—rear axle suspension by torsion bars. Hydraulic shock absorbers front and rear. Hydraulic brakes on all four wheels controlled by foot-brake. An auxiliary braking system is provided by the pistol-grip type hand-brake being separately cable-operated to the rear wheels. High-geared (rack and pinion) Frazer-Nash-B.M.W. steering. 14½-gallon rear tank (refuelled through centre of spare wheel, cover having a hinged locking centre plate). Bosch electrical lighting and starting equipment. Dunlop 5·25 x 16 low-pressure tyres on disc wheels. “One-shot” chassis lubrication. Easy-jacking sytem, allowing either side of car to be raised (all models). Tool-kit in detachable box, with recessed mouldings for all tools. Weight of complete car (the exceptionally sturdy body construction should be remembered in this connection) is only 22½ cwts. Dimensions : Wheelbase, 9 ft. 6 in. ; Track (front) 4 ft. 4 ins. (rear) 4 ft. 7 ins. ; Overall length, 15 ft. 1 ins. ; Overall height, 5 ft. 6 in. ; Overall width, 5 ft. 3 in. ; Ground Clearance, 9 ins. ; Turning Circle, 35 ft. BODY Five-seater four-light cabriolet. V-screen—both sections individually controlled. The arm-chair front seats fold forward, and are immediately adjustable for seating position and rake of squab. The rear bench provides ample room for three adults—arm-rests are provided, including a detachable centre rest. Head covered in best quality washable material, with envelope of same material completely protecting head and frame when folded down. Seats and interior are upholstered in best leather. The wide doors of sturdy build have substantial hinges (with great width, with greasing nipples) and duplicate handles allow all passengers to open the doors from inside ; leather pull-to handles and arm-rests are fitted, and pockets extend the full door width. All windows, as well-fitting as in any limousine, have narrow frames and wind down. All interior fittings are of the highest quality and workmanship, and equipment includes rear window blind, sun visor, interior roof light, cigarette lighter, ash-trays, locking cubby-hole in dash, etc. Instruments include speedometer, oil pressure gauge, radiator thermometer gauge, petrol gauge (all indirectly illuminated with rheostat control for night driving) and 8-day clock. Separate catalogue available on request. £595.0.0 | ||