1979 Vanden Plas 1500
Since the 1920's, the famous Kingsbury Works was home to Vanden Plas.
Unfortunately, time was called on Austin's first satellite factory in
March 1979. Later Allegros would be trimmed at Abingdon, before that
too was halted. After that Vanden Plas was just a fancy badge to be
applied to leather-equipped versions of the Maestro, Montego, Rover
200 and SD1. They all looked stylish and sophisticated during the
1980's, when the Vanden Plas badge was added.
The BMC 1100 based Vanden Plas Princess was considered royality on
wheels. The Allegro never felt as great, as cheaper material was used
for the interior. The door cards have a cheap feel to them but the
seating is still supportive and comfortable.
The Vanden Plas 1500 engine proved a little truculent until it had
warmed sufficiently for the choke to be pushed home. However, once
off choke, it ran smoothly and no signs of smoke.
The Vanden Plas was a joy to drive. The suspension cushioned well
from undulations and the steering felt tight and direct. The gear
change isn't that accurate but that would apply to most cars from
this period anyway.
The Vanden Plas can build up speed nicely and isn't that noisy for a
car of its age.
If you want a simple, uncomplicated, classic car, then the Vanden
Plas 1500 would be an ideal choice. It is very economical and
requires little maintenance.
Specification of
1979 Vanden Plas 1500:
Engine-1485cc/4-cyl/OHC
Power-68bhp @ 5500rpm
Torque-80lbft @ 2900rpm
Top Speed-91mph
0-60mph-17 seconds
Fuel Consumption-25-30mpg
Gearbox-5-speed manual
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