Highlights

Restored during the COVID period covering bodywork, interior, and mechanicals
Full repaint and complete interior retrim with new carpets
Mechanical overhaul completed
Detailed write-up of all restoration works included

The Appeal

Back in the '60s, this was the definitive BMC luxury saloon. The Vanden Plas Princess boasted a smooth 2,912cc straight-six with the hand-finished coachwork for which Vanden Plas was renowned. With its walnut-veneered cabin and distinguished presence, it offered a level of refinement that rivalled considerably more expensive marques of the period. It's still a rather stately classic today.

This 1961 example has benefited from a thorough restoration carried out during the pandemic, covering bodywork, interior, and mechanicals. A new battery has been recently fitted, and accompanying the car is a detailed write-up of all the restoration works completed, offering the next keeper a clear picture of what has been done. Holding a valid MOT until February 2027, this Princess presents a fine opportunity to acquire a well-sorted example of a distinguished British classic.

Key Information

Mileage: 79,750 miles (unwarranted)
Country of registration: United Kingdom
Technical inspection status: MOT valid until February 2027
Technical specs: 2,912cc inline six-cylinder petrol, three-speed manual
Paperwork: Detailed write-up of all restoration works included

The vendor elaborates:
"Purchased in 2019 as a “lockdown project”, the car was in running condition with a current MOT. After a thorough inspection, I embarked on a full body and mechanical restoration. All corroded metal was cut out, and new fabricated steel seam welded in. On completion, a full repaint using 2K Max Meyer Black over Carlton Grey.

A full interior trim was carried out by an experienced vehicle upholsterer. A petrol tank repair and a new front-to-rear pipe were fitted. Mechanically, the braking system was overhauled, including a rebuild of the original servo. Genuine new old stock front brake pads. New brake lines and hoses fitted together with new rear wheel cylinders. The front suspension has been checked with new bushes where necessary, and the W/H kingpin has been re-bushed.

The engine is a fully rebuilt later replacement unit together with a floor change 3 speed overdrive gearbox. A new full clutch assembly was fitted. The rear axle had an overhaul with new bearings and seals, together with both rear wheel bearings. There have been numerous other repairs and replacement parts, eg, speedometer repair, new cable, a clutch slave cylinder hose and seals.

To make the car more usable and safe, I fitted inertia-reel front belts, a 3rd brake light, and an alternator in place of the original dynamo, plus a battery cut-out switch"

The Detail

Full repaint completed
Car appears solid and well-presented
Brightwork contrasts nicely
Underside appears to be solid
Complete interior retrim and new carpets fitted
Mechanical overhaul carried out
The vendor states that the car runs as it should
New battery recently fitted

BEFORE YOU BUY

This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:

✓ The seller is registered as a private seller which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions..

✓ We request that a non-refundable fee be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates.

✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.

✓ VAT is included in the buyer's fee. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.

✓ We want a smooth transaction just as much as you do and as such we run all UK-registered cars and motorbikes for sale on Car & Classic through an online HPI check to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and have no finance owing, allowing you to bid with confidence.

✓ We also check whether vehicles are recorded as being written off as part of an insurance total loss claim at the time an advert is placed on Car & Classic and we helpfully provide write-off category labels (Cat C/D/S/N) for your assistance. However, the presence or absence of a label does not guarantee the vehicle’s status and it is always worthwhile carrying out your own full vehicle history check before making an offer on a vehicle.

✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection

or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes so it's worth checking beforehand. It is the bidders responsibility to confirm import eligibility prior to purchase.

✓ Unless stated otherwise, you must assume that any cherished, personalised, or heritage vehicle registration is not included in the sale of a vehicle.