Last week I asked which British WW1 aero engines were actually copies of a German GP engine? It was the Rolls-Royce Eagle. Based initially on the Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost engine, and drawing also on the design of a Grand Prix Mercedes 35 hp, the power was increased by doubling the number of cylinders to twelve and increasing their stroke to 6.5 inches, although their bore remained at 4.5 inches. The engine was also run faster, and an epicyclic reduction gear was designed to keep the propeller speed below 1,100 rpm. To reduce inertia and improve performance the valve gear was changed from side valves to an overhead camshaft design.
So to this week. Which car, still in production, has been the greatest money loser for the manufacturer in the past 10 years?
For the Automania free beer this week, be the first correct answer to email [email protected].
