Description
H&H Classic Auction @Pavilion Gardens | Buxton, Derbyshire
27th Nov, 2024 13:00
1978 Vanden Plas 1500
Registration No: YEV 302S
Chassis No: VF4SJ358964A
MOT: Exempt
Just 56, 000 (believed genuine) miles on the odometer
Only five former keepers
Pleasingly original with dealer rear window sticker, original number plates and notably unmolested interior
Offered with a large history file
Produced between 1974 and 1979, the Vanden Plas 1500 and 1750 models were upmarket versions of the Austin Allegro which had first appeared in 1973. Allegros manufactured at the British Leyland factory in Longbridge, Birmingham, were sent to the Vanden Plas factory in Kingsbury, North London, to be mechanically checked and then fitted with a luxurious interior featuring leather seats, wall to wall carpeting, a walnut dashboard and walnut picnic tables. They also featured a new bonnet panel allowing for a prominent chrome grille. BL's marketing suits went to great lengths to distinguish the Vanden Plas models from the rest of the Allegro range, never badging or referring to them as Allegros.
Manufactured in 1978, ‘YEV 302S’ was registered on the 30th March that year, being supplied new via Braintree Motor Company. Retained in first ownership for almost exactly a year, the Vanden Plas transferred to the second owner in 1979, with this lady owner retaining the Vanden Plas for over thirty years, until 2010. Finished in White paintwork with a Black finishing line, ‘YEV 302S’ is complemented by Brown interior upholstery which is understood to be pleasingly highly original, as well as boasting the rear window dealer sticker and original dealer number plates, which are of course BL/ Unipart items. Offered now having just c. 56, 000 recorded and believed genuine miles and only five former keepers, the Vanden Plas presents nicely throughout.
Starting readily and running well during the recent photography session, it certainly appears to be well-maintained, indeed, the 1500 was last serviced at 51, 559 miles. Offered with a large history file that comprises the book pack in a British Leyland wallet (including product guide and handbook), original sales literature, ownership history, numerous previous MOTs supporting the mileage, a large collection of invoices for work and servicing, old tax discs and a current V5C document, the 1500 also benefits from a stainless steel exhaust, a matching set of radial tyres and the original jack. A well-presented example, it is accompanied by the V5C Registration Document and two sets of keys.
