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).
From R. to Mr. H.S. discussing the qualities and issues of competitor vehicles, specifically Alfa Romeo and Lagonda.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 179\1\ img169 | |
| Date | 15th December 1931 | |
| S. FROM R.{Sir Henry Royce} C. to MR. HS.{Lord Ernest Hives - Chair} ALFA ROMEO, LAGONDA, ETC. x483 Referring to SG{Arthur F. Sidgreaves - MD}9/B141231., I quite agree with you about the appearance, comfort, etc. I suggested the Alfa for technical reasons of design and reliability of performance, steering qualities, etc. I have left the body space and appearance, and comfort, to your judgment. You know my views have been expressed by E.V. in our continental models. I have got my task in getting a satisfactory chassis. I do not know anything in the specification up to the present which can be improved. It does not prevent any reasonable appearance etc being obtained. Minchin reported that the Lagonda broke down (mechanically, seriously with someone he knew - axle and steering I believe - so I thought it no use as a sample). We do not approve of the blower because it needs too much oil. It is a "Power Plus", of which we bought one for Derby some little time back. It may or may not be as silent, but the Roots type is the better and simpler because it does not need oil internally. Certainly there are many noises on the Alfa - timing gears, etc - mostly they seem to be air whistles and shrieks. The Lagonda illustration looks more like a Bentley 8 litre. I fear we shall not be able to make an 18HP. look like a noble 50HP., except by artist's licence. R.{Sir Henry Royce} | ||