A very rarely seen example of the big Austin-based Vanden Plas limousine
Re-imported from the Middle-East, where it formed part of a sizeable collection
Resprayed and restored
Featuring a beautiful retrimmed red leather interior
The Appeal
Vanden Plas started life as a Belgian coachbuilder as far back as 1870. Thanks to a series of unusual twists and turns it became part of the British Motor Corporation conglomerate, via Austin ownership, in 1958. The prestige associated with the marque demanded that what was BMC’s range-topping car, the Austin A135 should henceforth be known as the Vanden Plas Princess Limousine.
Our example started life in the UK being first registered here in April 1966. As so many did, our car started out black which made for a somewhat funereal looking conveyance. An enthusiast of British limousines of this era, based in the Middle East bought the car and shipped it there for a full restoration. Its transformation to stunning gold also happened then, making for an extremely eye-catching and altogether more cheerful looking classis limousine.
If unique looking cars are your weakness, then there is much to interest you here! On viewing this car, only the best-informed British car enthusiast is likely to correctly identify the car as a Vanden Plas Princess. This example represented BMC’s top of the range offering for many a year and will have been at the centre of many a mayoral, or even royal, parade.
This example certainly stands out even more than usual in its striking gold colourway and the interior offers space for six in the rear cabin alone should that be required. The condition overall is excellent throughout too, with some potential for further improvement if required. A car with a lot of potential uses open to it and a highly individual, perhaps unique, example of 1960’s British “limousine-chic” at its best.
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.*
UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Car & Classic are run through an online HPI check. On the HPI report, this vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft. It is currently not covered by a finance agreement.
A non-refundable buyer’s deposit is payable on this item, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for the applicable percentage.
Car & Classic's secure payment system protects buyers and sellers. At the end of the auction, the winning bidder transfers payment into a third-party escrow account. Once the transfer of the vehicle is complete, both parties confirm they are happy with the sale and the money is released to the seller.
NO RESERVE - 1966 Vanden Plas Princess Limousine
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