From: Bill Sheehan, Australia
[email protected]
Date: 09 Dec 2002
Time: 12:18:39
Remote Name: 203.29.131.3
Have to agree with all the above opinions. Apart from the fragility of other components, the bottom line is DRUM SIZE & Lining area - no matter the actuation, you have your limitation right there. I'd only suggest it for a lightweight racing Special where you've overcome the various inherent problems. Bruce might be interested that when I put a '25 together in a hurry to take part in New Zealand International Rally, I'd only driven it 3 miles (to the Shipping dock). Between Auckland & Hamilton I had to stop suddenly and the 6" brakes actually locked up! However they deteriorated quickly & in the high mileage the car later did back in Oz it was a constant toil to keep them anywhere near to that (as new) standard. Food for thought : in 1929 Autocar road tested a Seven, a Morris Minor, a Triumph Super Seven & a Trojan. In order is the Cost, Max. Speed, Petrol consumption, Turning circle, Weight, Braking distance from 20mph, 30mph,40mph. Austin 7 : 130 pounds, 52mph, 45-50mpg, 32ft, 11cwt, 15ft, 47ft, 68ft. Morris Minor : 135, 52mph, 40mpg, 32ft, 14cwt, 31ft, 66ft, 128ft. Triumph S7 : 172, 50mph, 38mpg, 36ft, 15cwt, 20ft, 48ft, 73ft. (We'll omit the Trojan's figures unless you're in dire need of a laugh). So the Austin 7 ended up tops in just about everything including stopping distances. May I remind you that the Triumph was fitted with HYDRAULIC brakes as standard? Say no more. Cheers, Bill