Today we are used to seeing re-badged
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 prestigous grille and
interior.
Obviously an attempt to manufacture something more prestigous
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.