Vanden Plas Princess 1500
Reviewed by Unique Cars and Parts
Our Rating: 2
Introduction
Today we are used to seeing rebadged vehicles on the road, who could forget the Toyota "Lexcen" and Holden "Apollo"? But in 1974 Austin put the nail in the coffin of the Vanden Plas marque when it released the Princess 1500.
Everybody knew the new Vanden Plas was by any other name an Austin Allegro, sporting a more prestigious grille and interior.
Obviously an attempt to manufacture something more prestigious than an Austin, but cheaper than a Roller, the car featured the usual array of Vanden Plas goodies such as walnut dash, leather seats and of course the obligatory rear picnic tables.
But the most distinguishing feature was the grille, which would have disappointed the proud owner when to look behind it would reveal entirely Austin running gear!
The jury is still out on whether the front end styling is beautiful or dog ugly - maybe only you can decide.