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).
Test drive report for the 14-EX model, detailing issues with the engine, seats, handling, and instrument layout.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 65a\2\ scan0005 | |
| Date | 6th July 1928 | |
| Hs{Lord Ernest Hives - Chair} X9770 To Hs.{Lord Ernest Hives - Chair} from BJ. re 14-EX. BJ11/E6.7.28 Copy to R.{Sir Henry Royce} I tried this car from Gerrards Cross to London and over a few hills and roads that I knew, and came to the following conclusions: 1. The engine was noisier than standard and had a roar especially when accelerating; also there is rather more vibration than our present standard. 2. The back seats struck me as still very uncomfortable. I cannot believe it is exactly the same as our demonstration cars. 2. The back did not support my shoulder blades and did not feel luxurious. The seats seemed higher; the cushions less springy and comfortable. The seat did not seem tilted back as much as usual. 3. The car seemed inclined to roll on corners and one felt small depressions and joggles. 4. The speedometer and clock should change places as one cannot see the speedometer - it is hidden by the side of the steering wheel. 5. There is a good deal of spitting in the exhaust which is not present on my car and which I hoped we had got rid of on all cars. I attach copy of report on springing from Sg.{Arthur F. Sidgreaves - MD} and Cx.{Major Len W. Cox - Advertising Manager} and a memo. from PN.{Mr Northey} BJ. Attached: Copy of Cx{Major Len W. Cox - Advertising Manager}10/KB4.7.28 Copy of PN{Mr Northey}10/WT5.7.28 | ||