Highlights
- Beautiful and well-maintained example of a classic hand built luxury British limousine
- Subject in recent years to substantial mechanical and cosmetic spend
- Fabulous interior benefiting from a previous retrim, completed to a very high standard
- In recent use as a popular and profitable wedding car, offering the added flexibility of seating for 7
The Appeal
Launched in 1952, the Princess Limousine was a hand-built luxury vehicle produced by the long established and highly respected coachbuilders Vanden Plas. Constructed from a combination of steel and light alloy panels over a timber frame and based upon a lengthened Austin A135 chassis, the Princess Limousine was a resounding success at launch, a fact reflected by 2 vehicles immediately being ordered by the Royal Household.
Crafted from the finest materials available and drawing upon decades of coach building expertise, the Vanden Plas Princess represented the very highest standards of excellence and luxury at the time, qualities which are still clearly evident today.
Coming towards the end of Princess production, this 1968 model is quite simply a superb example of the breed.
Resplendent in white over silver and benefiting from considerable mechanical and cosmetic expenditure in recent years, this well-sorted example is now ready to continue on its duties under new ownership with characteristic elegance and grace.
The History and Paperwork
- V5C present
- 5 former keepers
- Historic vehicle and therefore MOT and Road Tax exempt
- Original Driver’s handbook in excellent condition
- Collection of previous MOT certificates
- Owner’s club documentation and a collection of older photographs of the Princess
The Interior
- Presented in the classic combination of cream with brown piping and benefiting from a retrim in recent years, the rear passenger compartment of this Princess is truly a special place to be.
- Interior surfaces finished in stunning burr walnut veneers, which appear to be in excellent condition throughout and show only the lightest patina of age
- Commodious space for rear occupants with the added practicality of occasional seating for a further 2 passengers, thus allowing seating for up to a total of 7
- Deep pile Wilton carpets also presenting in fabulous condition, with a lamb’s wool rug in the rear further adding to the overall feel of opulence.
- Interior chrome fitments and other fittings all appearing complete and in fine condition
- Original headlining appearing in excellent condition, with no evidence of staining or sagging
- Driver’s compartment also presenting in lovely original condition with some mild discolouration of the driver’s seat noted - something we’re sure could easily be addressed with reconnolisation should the new owner wish
- Instrumentation reported to be functional apart from the small clock within the speedometer
The Exterior
- Approaching the Princess it’s immediately apparent this has been a very well cared for and well maintained vehicle
- Resplendent in a stunning combination of white over silver, finished by tasteful coachlines running the length of the car
- Recently subject of a re-spray to the silver paintwork whilst under current ownership, with work totalling approximately £1500
- Body panels appear to be in excellent condition without any evidence of significant damage or corrosion
- Plenty of attractive external brightwork, presenting in excellent condition
- White wall cross ply tyres all round with good tread
- Fitment of period correct front fog lights and wing mirrors under current ownership
The Mechanics
- Whilst under current ownership this Princess has been the beneficiary of substantial and wide-ranging mechanical work meaning it is now in excellent running condition
- Recent works include:
- 2018: Removal of fuel tank for cleaning and replacement of fuel lines, filter, and pump. Work also included an overhaul of steering and braking systems and replacement of door rubbers and boot seals, totalling around £3000
- 2020: Unleaded petrol conversion undertaken and retempering of rear suspension springs by the original manufacturer
- 2022: Top-end engine rebuild including re-skimming of the head, replacement piston rings and new valves, with work totalling around £3000
- New 12 volt batteries recently fitted
- Underneath the Princess is reported to be in solid condition with photographs demonstrating only areas of superficial corrosion with underseal mostly intact
Summary
A beautiful and very well sorted example of a Vanden Plas Princess, benefiting from considerable spend in recent years. Whilst under current ownership this Princess has performed exceptionally well and has regularly undertaken professional chauffeuring duties with aplomb. A truly elegant machine, this gorgeous Princess is sure to be a great asset for her new custodian.
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.
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