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The Crested Eagle 1933 -1939 |
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This car shared many features with other models and was rather less sporting in character. Accordingly its survival rate is disappointingly low as many were pillaged in the 1950s and 1960s to yield spares for their more glamorous sisters. It was produced in a bewildering range of variants with 6 cylinder engines of 2148 cc (TE 16.95), 2511 cc (TD & TE 19.82), 2762 cc (TF, TG, TJ & TK 19.82) and 3571 cc (TA, TB, TC and TD 25.63), on chassis of 10'3" or 11' wheelbase. The power units were very similar to the contemporary Silver Eagle, Speed 20 and Speed 25 engines, sometimes with valve gear differences. |
| Earlier models had single Solex carburetters in place of the triple SUs on the sporting cars, but later examples had the familiar multiple arrangement. Independent front suspension was used for the first time since the FWD, featuriing a massive transverse leaf set across the chassis and wishbones mounted underneath. The chassis was set higher than on the "Speed" models, without the pronounced drop. Initially ENV preselector gearboxes were fitted, but from 1936 these were discarded in favour of the all synchromesh Alvis unit. Brakes, rear axle and steering box came from the middle thirties parts bin, along with the engines. An imposing tall, tapering radiator complemented the more upright bodies. |
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The
familiar "jelly mould" wheels and knock-on hubs completed the ensemble.
An astonishing variety of coachwork styles appeared on this long-running
and successful model, from formal 6 light limousines through 4 and 6 light
saloons and elegant 4 light semi "razor edge" limousines, sedanças de
ville, to drophead coupés and even a few tourers. Bodies were roomier
than those on the more dashing "Speed" models, very comfortable and well
appointed. The bigger engined Crested Eagles were no mean performers for
their day, capable of 85 mph, and handled well too. Production totalled
around 650 examples, a high figure for a car costing £750 to around
£900. If these figures seem low, remember that the average annual
wage for a working man was about £200!
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