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).
Letter detailing an unfortunate experience with the brakes on a new Bentley, causing the car to spin.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 88\1\ scan0017 | |
| Date | 2nd November 1933 | |
| The Car Mart Ltd., Stanhope House, 320, Euston Road, London N.W.1. 2nd November 1933. W.Cowen, Esq., Messrs.Rolls-Royce Ltd., 14/15 Conduit Street, W.1. Dear Mr.Cowen, I had the pleasure of a short trial run in a new BENTLEY the other day, but had a very unfortunate experience with the car about which I have been going to write to you. As you are possibly aware, however, we have just transferred from 297, Euston Road to Stanhope House, and my time has been very fully occupied. I was driving the car from Brent Cross Garage, returning to London with Major Grigg and your representative in the car. Having just left the Garage, where there was a little traffic about - and driven 200 yards or so on the way to Finchley Road it was necessary for me quickly to avoid another car in front - namely a Ford. My speed, according to Major Grigg's and my own opinion was not exceeding 45 miles an hour; in fact I should say it was nearer 40 miles an hour. I pulled the wheel to the right a little in order to avoid the car in front of me and applied the brakes, not in any way harshly, but, I would say, firmly. The road was quite dry at the time. The car, however, turned completely round, facing the direction in which I had come, on the other side of the road. Fortunately, it did not touch anything. My contention is that the front wheel brakes came on too quickly - in fact, I think the brakes nearly locked - causing the car to turn round. These are my casual observations but I am of opinion that any other driver would have had the same experience. You will agree, I am sure, that this should not have happened, and I bring this before your notice, as it is a very serious matter. With kind regards, and assuring you of my close co-operation at all times. I am Yours sincerely (Sd) A.J.Rayment Director. | ||