VdP 1100 Princess
ENGINE 1098cc/4-cyl/OHV POWER 55bhp@5500rpm TORQUE 60lb ft@2500rpm MAXIMUM SPEED 83mph 0-60MPH 20sec FUEL CONSUMPTION 26-33mpg TRANSMISSION FWD, four-speed manual MoT 12 months from sale ODOMETER 32,467 miles
WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE?
A cold start with full choke is no problem for this Vanden Plas; the 1100 settles quickly, offering 60psi oil pressure. The clutch is excellent with minimal play during gear selection while the Hydrolastic suspension deals easily with uneven road suraces. The ride is ultra-comfortable on the move and the steering is light, providing great feedback at speed. This car is free from unwanted vibrations and rattles but is better-suited to B-roads or town work than it is to fast multi-lane carriageways. Happiest around 55mph, the steering feels positive and the brakes bring everything to a halt in a straight line with no fuss.
BODYWORK CHECK
This exterior appears largely original and has the correct Sherwood Green finish with hand-painted Ochre pinstripe. There’s light pitting across the chrome rear trims and door handles, but the front bumper is a recent replacement. Straight panels and correct door gaps are further evidence that this exterior is unmolested with just a small chip to the finish at the top of the nearside rear door. Window rubbers are free from cracks and in perfect condition, while the underside shows no signs of welding; the floor panels are well protected with underseal, plus evidence of antirust cavity injection carried out when new.
HOW’S THE INTERIOR?
The interior is a complete contrast to any other ADO16. The luxury Wilton carpets show little sign of wear, having long been protected with rubber mats, the leather seating looks like it’s been barely used – it’s still soft to the touch – and the wool roof lining is very impressive and looks showroom-fresh. The walnut dashboard and glovebox veneers have suffered from cracks to the lacquer finish – it’s common age-related issue, but can be corrected, though many owners choose to live with it. Every gauge, dial and switch works perfectly, likewise the Radiomobile radio, but the clock is currently inoperative.
UNDER THE BONNET
The engine bay is difficult to fault. The chrome rocker cover is showing some signs of age, but the engine looks correct and there are no leaks either from the motor or the Hydrolastic system. The original sound deadening is still in place and a new splash guard has been fitted. A perfectionist may want to refinish the battery tray, securing strap and radiator top in satin black, but visually this area is ready to show.
THE CCW VIEW
The luxury models of the ADO16 were an expensive proposition in period so survivors are generally in good order. It is unfortunate that much of this car’s history has been lost although visually, inside and out, its originality is obvious, as is its impressive finish.