Vanden Plas

The Vanden Plas 1.5 and 1.7 were luxury-tuned versions of the Austin Allegro. Introduced in 1974, these models aimed to offer upmarket refinement in a compact package. While mechanically based on the Allegro, the Vanden Plas variants featured distinct upgrades: a formal upright grille, wood-veneer dashboards, leather upholstery, and fold-down picnic tables in the rear - all hand-finished in the classic Vanden Plas tradition. Available initially with a 1.5-liter engine and later with a 1.7-liter option, the cars retained the front-wheel-drive layout and Hydragas suspension of the Allegro, but emphasized comfort and elegance over performance. Though modest in size, the Vanden Plas 1500/1700 delivered an air of quiet dignity, appealing especially to older or more traditional buyers. Production continued until 1980, after which the model was quietly phased out. Today, these cars are cult favorites among British classic enthusiasts for their quirky charm and unlikely blend of small-car practicality and old-world luxury.

See also: Austin Allegro