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).
The development of the 'Myth' car, covering its appearance, chassis design, and part sourcing strategy.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 144\2\ scan0014 | |
| Date | 24th January 1941 | |
| - 9 - Cont'd.{John DeLooze - Company Secretary} RM.{William Robotham - Chief Engineer}1/AH.24.1.41. (c) Appearance. We have provided two radiators for the Myth, one having a new appearance, which aims at being a combination of the Rolls Royce and Bentley features, and the other purely Rolls-Royce. We have a full-size model of the Ripplet, which approximates very closely to the appearance of the Rolls Royce version, which was the last aspect completed before the war. Water colour sketches and models have been prepared of the alternative radiator, which has purposely been kept somewhat conventional. The suggestion is that the new type radiator will be used to launch the car and establish the success or otherwise of the 4-cylinder model, in the hands of the public. Ev.{Ivan Evernden - coachwork} has evolved the appearance submitted. If the Myth establishes itself, then the Rolls Royce radiator can be utilised with the larger engine sizes to increase sales. If the price is going to compete with that of the Rover, the volume produced will have to be about 10,000 cars a year. (d) Chassis. Drawing PL.443, shows the chassis layout. Lockheed hydraulic brakes, Salisbury rear axle and a proprietary steering are shown, though alternative Rolls Royce designs of axle and steering are in hand. The front suspension is, like B.V., of the wishbone type, with exposed coil springs. It is, however, more compact. SUMMARY. If Ward can make the body and frame, we can get the steering, axle and brakes from outside sources. The same applies to the clutch and radiator. If it is impossible to make the 4-speed gearbox we have designed, we can use the Hillman "Minx" box that we have. If we could get the front suspension, pedals and the 10 h.p. 4-cylinder engine made, we should be in a position to build a Myth and run it on the road. Many parts of the engine, i.e. bearings, pistons and electrical equipment, can be bought out but certain pieces, such as the block and crankshaft would have to be made at the works. - Continued - | ||