[mikey]

It wasnt just the mascot' it was the radiator grille too. It led to all Rolls owners having to sign an agreement that whilst the car was theirs they can not deface the car etc etc. It also includes that if the car breaks down it is recovered free of charge apoparently. This is so the car is hidden (covered over) on the transporter so people can not identify one that has broken down. Many years ago the father of our chaiman in the young cons bought a new one that broke down within the first 12 months. It was towed away and Rolls Royce fixed it free of charge saying that it was a small electrical problem on the coil, had they been pulling the wiring off for some reason. They didn't realise his dad was an enthusiast that knows about cars. They had changed the engine and even tried to diguise the fact by muckying it up a bit.
What lengths and at what cost.
Just out of interest the Merlin Kit /Rolls Royce problem started when a Porsche driver in Germany had been passed easily at 150 mph on the german Autoban. He had identified the grille and badge and contacted Rolls to find out how to get one. Needless to say Rolls were not amused.
Mike.