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).
Test report on the Phantom III model covering engine smoothness, oiling, coachwork, and performance compared to American cars.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 174\2\ img122 | |
| Date | 3rd May 1937 | |
| -4- ENGINE SMOOTHNESS. The crankshaft damper had obviously got slightly out of adjustment producing a wide band of engine noise from 40 to 70 M.P.H. Experimental work is in hand on this. The power unit was more noticeable when idling than the average American engine. The deturbulated cylinder head should improve this. OVER-OILING. No trouble with fouled plugs was experienced though the oil consumption at high average speeds was only 700 M.P.G. No misfiring due to Ethyl, A.C. plugs used. American fuel is only 74 octane. The car was beginning to detonate, possibly owing to carboning up, due to oil going down the valve guides. COACHWORK. Rattled on bad roads, and doors dropped so that they would not close properly. The Dunlop cushions were very much admired and were most comfortable. PERFORMANCE. It is unnecessary to emphasise the effect of the P.III weight on its performance, this was predicted sometime ago. It is sufficient to say that we were completely out-performed by a Buick on the Proving Ground. A similar test can easily be made in England as doubtless the American models in question are available. SUMMARY. It is quite clear that we have got to make the P.III quieter, both with regard to engine and road noises. We have also got to reduce engine fuss and vibration. We must retain the controlability of the car with softer suspension. The combination of a coachbuilt body and our frame does not give the solidity of the American car. Weight must come down 20%. Our indirect gearbox gears are quieter than any we heard in U.S.A. | ||