NEW COACHWORK.
Since last year's show there have been great strides made both in the construction and finish of coachwork. Very attractive and striking two-colour schemes have been achieved, and bodies with pleasing lines are now the rule rather than the exception. I do not consider that coachwork has kept pace with chassis construction, however, but it is certainly steadily improving along the right lines, i.e., lightness and attractive appearance combined with comfort and utility.
Many are the difficulties which beset the coachbuilder, not the least of which is the whip of the chassis frame, which increases with its power-to-weight ratio and with the use of super-efficient four-wheel brakes. Then again, he is limited in many cases in weight because the lighter the body the better and more economical is car performance. The new and popular types of closed bodywork, which are generally fabric covered, are of two kinds—the flexible or Weymann type which flexes with the frame, and the rigid type which is insulated from the chassis. These are two—successful in many cases—methods of making light bodies stand up to their work and do so without rattling. Light all-metal saloons with cellulose finish are also making headway, and will tend to increase with mass production ; they are apt, however, to be more weighty and less roomy than the fabric finish, but require less hand labour to make. Pneumatic upholstery has come to stay, and this, combined with adjustable leg-room, seating rake, and arm rests gives the maximum of comfort. Windows which wind up and down are the rule, and generous sized doors which give ample access to both front and rear seats. Interesting innovations are the varying forms of sliding and folding roofs which are making their appearance in the so-called " Sun- shine Saloons." By this means the body can be rigid, and can be quickly opened or closed, while at the same time some of the advantages of an open car are obtainable. . .
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