A REMEDY FOR ROAD DEATHS [To the Editor of the
SPECTATOR.]
Sts,—It seems to me, as one of the few remaining motorists whose experience dates from the time of the " red flag," that the menace of the " speed merchants " is a result of the present fetish of the "high top-speed" car. This type of car may have its advantages, but its disadvantages must certainly outweigh them. Suck a car is very expensive to run because it is heavy on both oil and petrol, And when the brakes are applied, as they often are, with great suddenness, damage is done, not only to the tyres, but to the road surface.
I have come to the conclusion that the safest car to drive, and the one that gives the greatest pleasure, is not the abnor- mally " high top-speed " car but one with an engine of mode- rate size, with lively acceleration and construction so as to be really free from vibration, a well-sprung car fitted with anti- rebound device. In such a car as this one can sit in comfort in the back seat and read a newspaper and do on an average thirty miles per hour, while never exceeding 40-45. I feel sure that my views will coincide with those of a large number of moderate users of the road. They will probably not be in accordance with the ideas of some of the younger generation. Nevertheless, I am quite sure that the " high top-speed " car will pass in favour of the car which has a moderate top speed and rapid acceleration.—I am, Sir, &c., TrromAs C. PIILLINGER,
Dumfries. Managing Director Arrol-Johnston.
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