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).
The Bentley V model, discussing its gearbox, steering wheel, production status, and cost analysis.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 161a\3\ scan0149 | |
| Date | 27th April 1939 | |
| BENTLEY V.{VIENNA} -4- Cx{Major Len W. Cox - Advertising Manager}6/FS.{F. Steele}27.4.39. 2. Gearbox. It is reported that the B.V. gearbox would not be so silent as those at present in production for 'M' series. It is however believed that the B.V. gearbox will prove to be acceptable from that point of view. The cost of the present gearbox was criticised as being far too great. The matter will be further discussed at the next Chassis Meeting which will take place immediately after Whitsun. 3. Steering Wheel: This will have the thinner rim as there was prior to the introduction of the wheel with three spokes. 4. Production: PHC's Dept. intimated that instructions for production of this chassis were still incomplete. A list showing what was still required was produced by Mr. Reid and handed to BY.{R.W. Bailey - Chief Engineer} who will investigate the matter. 5. Cost of Production: It was stated that those responsible were not in a position to give a reliable statement on this matter in the absence of a reliable specification. For instance, there was an item of £58. to be accounted for and it was found this was due to - Material, £6. - Labour, £9. and the remainder in overheads. Further consideration is being given to this matter. Memo. from ROY{Sir Henry Royce}/Les.{Ivan A. Leslie} dated 18.4.39 was read showing that by comparing certain items of R.R. chassis with similar items on other cars, notably Humber and Buick, such as shock absorbers, air cleaners, etc., there was still a very wide difference between the respective costs which show that there is plenty of scope yet for reducing costs in such a way. P.B.50: This is available for Sales to try and G.{Mr Griffiths - Chief Accountant / Mr Gnapp} and Cx.{Major Len W. Cox - Advertising Manager} will try it to-day. (See separate report). | ||