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Vanden
Plas 2200 Prototype This is another one off special – the Princess Vanden Plas. It
was built in mid 1975, just after the launch of the 18-22 Series, and was
based on an Austin 2200. The most striking feature is the large front grille,
taken from the Allegro VP and successfully grafted into the styling to give
an almost Jaguar appearance, with a fabricated bonnet neatly moulded to fit
behind it. The headlamps are also unique; they are squarer shaped than the
trapezoidal lamps and feature integral indicator lenses. The spaces left by
the original side and indicator lamps now covered by a pair of driving lamps.
The VP 2200 was never put into production as BL decided to stop badge
engineering altogether in September 1975. The car now resides with the
Heritage Collection at Gaydon, but is rarely displayed. (Apologies for the slightly blurry images, but the
lighting in the museum is shockingly poor and I had to use the nighttime mode
on my camera.) Years of neglect have meant that this VP is in need of some TLC
– there are several dents in the bodywork and as you can see, the suspension
needs pumping up. I believe the colour is romano purple, which was later used
on the Princess Club 100 Special. |
There’s
no denying that this is the VP version. Overriders and twin fog lamps add to
the effect.
The interior made use of the Leyland
parts bin, with some switchgear and trim coming from Jaguar. Air
conditioning, electric windows and remote control door mirrors all added to
the luxurious ambience.
Specially styled and trimmed leather
seats, with matching piped carpets.
Picnic tables and door-mounted speakers
for rear seat passengers, as well as electric windows. Note the uniquely
styled door cappings.
The VP2200. A possible
top-of-the-range car over and above the Wolseley in the background.
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