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 list of criticisms on a vehicle's components and handling, page 2.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 89\2\ scan0032 | |
| Date | 28th August 1934 guessed | |
| (2). it is much more severe, and is really dangerous and snatches the wheel right out of your hands. In one case I nearly collided with another car. I have put on the spare wheel and have had no repetition of the trouble. (2). WEAR OF TYRES. On the whole I consider I am a careful driver, and do not use my brakes fiercely. I always think that the type of driver who has been brought up on old cars, with very poor brakes, is a good deal kinder than one who has only experienced front wheel brakes; therefore, I think my car has been well treated in regard to braking. In spite of this fact, after 5,000 miles, the treads on the two rear wheels have worn quite smooth. My impressions are, therefore, that the car is somewhat under-tyred. (3). SPRINGING AND ROAD HOLDING ABILITY. The general springing and road holding abilities are really excellent. The one point of criticism I have to make is, that the front springs have too much movement, and, if one takes a big bump, or railway crossing, at fairly high speed, there is an alarming bounce on the front axle. This is much more pronounced on my car than on the original open 4-seater Bentley which I tried out, and which was particularly good in this respect. I rather think that the adjustment of the shock absorbers, or the period of the front springs, is different on my car from the original model. (4). PETROL CONSUMPTION. Excellent. 16 3/4 miles to the gallon on short runs going backwards and forwards to work, and 19.2 miles to the gallon carefully measured over the Scottish trip. (5). OIL CONSUMPTION. Very low; in my opinion too low. 4 1/2 pints only put in during the Scottish trip. (6). FLOAT MECHANISM IN SUMP. This wants carefully watching, as it is apt to stick some times, and give a false reading. (7). CLUTCH. A bit on the fierce side. Especially noticeable in traffic. (8). BRAKES. Excellent in power and steadiness, but, in spite of very careful use, I do not think they will have a very long life. This remains to be seen. (9). GEAR BOX AND TRANSMISSION. A distinctly unpleasant rattle on changing, and acceleration, which I presume is due to some defect in the synchro-mesh gear. I consider this wants remedying. (10). ACCELERATION. I still think, after due consideration, that the acceleration in third gear is not as good as it ought to be. (contd.) | ||