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 sedan. 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 state inspection 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: state inspection 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 state inspection. 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

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