Vanden Plas Princess

The Vanden Plas Princess was a distinguished four-door sedan produced by the British Motor Corporation (BMC) under the prestigious Vanden Plas name from 1959 to 1964. This model is renowned for its blend of luxury and performance, making it a sought-after vehicle in its time. The 1961 iteration marked a significant transformation, featuring all-new bodywork designed by the renowned Italian coachbuilder Pininfarina, reflecting the contemporary design trends of the era while also drawing inspiration from the Austin Westminster. One of the standout features of the 1961 Vanden Plas Princess was its slightly more powerful engine, which delivered 120 bhp (88 kW). While the overall exterior dimensions remained consistent with its predecessor, the wheelbase was extended by 2 inches (51 mm). This extension enhanced the car’s interior space, ensuring that the wheel arches no longer intruded into the cabin area, thus providing a more comfortable and spacious environment for passengers. The performance of the Vanden Plas Princess was impressive for a luxury sedan of its class. It achieved a top speed of 169 km/h, a respectable figure that underscored its sporty character. Additionally, the car boasted improved fuel efficiency, consuming 15.4 liters per 100 km, which was an appealing feature for buyers who valued both performance and economy. In 1964, the Vanden Plas Princess underwent another significant change with the introduction of the Princess 4 Litre R, which replaced the earlier 3 Litre model. This new variant continued the legacy of luxury and performance associated with the Vanden Plas name while offering further refinements and enhancements. Overall, the Vanden Plas Princess remains a notable example of British automotive design from the late 1950s and early 1960s, combining elegance with practicality and performance. With its Pininfarina styling, spacious interior, and capable engine, it exemplified the luxury sedan experience of its time, securing its place in automotive history.