Re: Is it true that the current Bentley V-8 is based upon Packard's design?

Posted by Predictor On 2009/9/7 0:25:51

I too had heard that story about RR cribbing the Packard V8 but I always figured that it was in relation to the first generation Rolls engine and certainly not the later aluminum jobs.

There IS precedent for Rolls copying Packard though, it's reported that they practically stole the Junior cars independent front suspension.

Regarding the GM supplied Hydramatics...supposedly the RR engineers disassembled an early sample and discovered some parts had a very rough cast finish to them. That would never suffice on such a highly refined autocar as a Rolls, so they blasted the finish smooth with walnut shells and then after cleaning, carefully reassembled it...only to discover that it no longer worked!

After contacting GM they learned the rough surface was there for a reason! It permitted the transmission fluid to cling to it. Dunno how true any of that is but it does illustrate the propensity of the Brits to fix things that aren't broken.

But you know what's REALLY scary? Airbus planes use avionics made by LUCAS!! Why do you think those in the know call them Scarebus?