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).
Bugatti car for experimental purposes, its condition, and number plates.
| Identifier | Morton\M16\ img001 | |
| Date | 4th July 1916 | |
| REF PRE & POST WAR CAR ENGINE DESIGN. COPY. To D.{John DeLooze - Company Secretary} from R.{Sir Henry Royce} c. to J.{Mr Johnson W.M.} c. to EH. 6/7/16 c. to EP.{G. Eric Platford - Chief Quality Engineer} R4/W4716. July 4th, 1916. 2266 RE BUGATTI CAR. Regarding the small Bugatti car here we require a black number plate. The description is:- Make Bugatti. H.P. 4 cylinders, just under 3" bore, (14.4 HP. R.A.C. rating,) viz., 75 m/m.{Mr Moon / Mr Moore} Bore 75 mm & Stroke 105 mm Upon secondary consideration I shall only be keeping this a week or two until I have got it into a safer condition to send to the Works at Derby for experimental purposes - I therefore think that perhaps red numbers would do. Could we use red numbers belonging to the Rolls-Royce factory, if so, will you please send me two to put on it, so that I may return the present red numbers which are on it to Messes Jarrotts - This is urgent. If I pay the tax for this car you will notice that it is a very small one, because there are only 4 cylinders and these are under 3" diameter - 14.4 HP. The car has been considerable trouble and is not particularly safe, the engine control being poor and the brakes inadequate. When we have got it running a little safer Mr Platford or Mr Hives might like to drive it back to Derby when they are visiting St.{Capt. P. R. Strong} Margaret's on other business. Please arrange this matter as you find best. R.{Sir Henry Royce} Q | ||