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).
Performance review and commentary on an 8 HP Austin car, registration AFV.977.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 124\4\ scan0016 | |
| Date | 25th February 1941 | |
| M.P.H @ 1000 R.P.M 1045 To Rm.{William Robotham - Chief Engineer} from Rm{William Robotham - Chief Engineer}/Wym.{G. Harold Whyman - Experimental Manager} Rm{William Robotham - Chief Engineer}/Wym.{G. Harold Whyman - Experimental Manager}4/SW.25.2.41. 8 h.p. Austin AFV.977. on the above car :- We have the following comments to make ENGINE. As usual with anything except an S.U. carb, the engine cuts out completely on full throttle below 10 m.p.h. Engine performance poor. Light period 40 - 50 m.p.h., otherwise a smooth engine. There is a lot of engine noise audible from the driver's seat. Examination showed NO noise insulation scheme on the dashboard. Fm (handwritten initials) CLUTCH. Smooth in action - no complaints. GEARBOX. Noisy side shaft and 1st gear. Other gears passable. Synchro good on 3rd and top gear, occasionally fails on 2nd. Hard to disengage 2nd gear. REAR AXLE. Like all small cars except the Hillman, a very poor standard. Bad period 35 - 45 m.p.h., forward and 50 - 45 m.p.h. and 40 - 30 m.p.h. overun. BRAKES. For a small car, are very good. STEERING. Is a little on the heavy side - otherwise good. Column and front end generally very steady. (continued) | ||