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).
Weight analysis of the B.V. prototype, comparing it to the 'M' series Bentley.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 100\3\ scan0067 | |
| Date | 14th November 1938 | |
| 458 also 258 SECRET By.{R.W. Bailey - Chief Engineer} from Rm.{William Robotham - Chief Engineer} c. SG.{Arthur F. Sidgreaves - MD} c. Hs.{Lord Ernest Hives - Chair} c. Da.{Bernard Day - Chassis Design} c. REC. c. MX.{John H Maddocks - Chief Proving Officer} c. Da{Bernard Day - Chassis Design}/Hdy.{William Hardy} c. Da{Bernard Day - Chassis Design}/Jnr.{Charles L. Jenner} c. Da{Bernard Day - Chassis Design}/SV. Weight of B.V. Prototype. We attach a summary of the provisional weight analysis of the B.V. which ran in France, compared with that of 'M' series Bentley. In considering these figures it should be remembered that throughout the development of this chassis every endeavour has been made where possible to use inexpensive materials and so save money. In the case of the Wraith the material cost was actually higher than that of the 25/30 and yet the chassis weight was increased by 70 lbs due to providing a stiff frame and independent suspension, both of which have been incorporated on B.V. It will be observed that a large proportion of the weight that has been saved on B.V. parts has been put back in the form of increased frame strength, this being now no less than 116 lbs heavier than the old type Bentley. Logically it must be possible to reduce the body weight now that it is given such a rigid platform to rest on. In B.V. the onus of carrying the spare wheel is now placed upon the chassis, here again the body should benefit by the weight of the wheel carrier. Another point that is likely to be overlooked in considering the chassis weight of B.V. is that this car represents the lower end of the rationalised range. In other words, steering, gearbox, axle tubes, brakes and front suspension have all to be suitable for Wraith replacement, and, therefore, rather heavier than if produced specifically for the Bentley car. The frame dies for B.V. also have to suit the Silver Wraith. Having regard to all these facts, therefore, we shall be satisfied if the B.V. chassis starts off in production no heavier than the 'M' Series Bentleys it replaces. | ||