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).
Impressions and criticisms from a test drive of a Bentley III 8.B.5.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 97\4\ scan0041 | |
| Date | 4th October 1938 | |
| Hoob To Rm.{William Robotham - Chief Engineer}. from Mx.{John H Maddocks - Chief Proving Officer} Mx.{John H Maddocks - Chief Proving Officer}10/N.4.10.38. Bentley III. 8.B.5. On a run to Buxton and back today, I formed the following impressions. Generally the car is good and shows promise considering the early stages of its development, as it stands at present the following are criticisms. Steering. Wanders at medium touring speeds, and is not self centring at very low speeds. Rather disappointing for sideways shake compared with 7.B.5. which is remarkably good. Gearbox. Top and overdrive changes either up or down are too easily crashed. The second gear is good in this respect. First gear is not quiet enough. Engine. There is a noticeable period about 2600 to 2800 r.p.m. Brakes. Good for ordinary use but not for anything in the nature of an emergency stop. Suspension. Back of car "drifts" when cornering. Mx.{John H Maddocks - Chief Proving Officer} | ||