Vanden Plas 1500
The ultimate expression of British Leyland luxury in a compact package.
- Power
- 68 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 16.0 s
- Top speed
- 93 mph
- Est. value
- $4k–$14k
About the Vanden Plas 1500
The Vanden Plas 1500 was a premium, coachbuilt version of the Austin Allegro, designed to offer the luxury of a limousine in a small car. While it shared the Allegro's 'Hydragas' suspension and E-Series engine, it was distinguished by a prominent chrome radiator grille, Connolly leather upholstery, and walnut picnic tables. Production began at the historic Kingsbury works before moving to Abingdon in 1979. Despite the Allegro's mixed reputation, the Vanden Plas remains a cult classic for its eccentric blend of high-end materials and humble mechanicals.
Vanden Plas 1500 specs
The Vanden Plas 1500 produces 68 bhp (51 kW) and 111 Nm (82 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 16.0 seconds and has a top speed of 93 mph (150 km/h).
| Make | Vanden Plas |
|---|---|
| Model | 1500 |
| Trim | 1.5 |
| Years | 1974–1980 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Saloon |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Production | About 11,942 built |
| Engine | 1.5-litre BMC E-Series inline-four |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,485 cc (1.5 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 68 bhp (51 kW) at 5,500 rpm |
| Torque | 111 Nm (82 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 5,750 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 16.0 s |
| Top speed | 93 mph (150 km/h) |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Weight | 940 kg (2,072 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 72 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Vanden Plas 1500 worth?
A typical Vanden Plas 1500 is estimated to be worth $3,500 – $14,000 (about £2,600 – £10,000).
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Vanden Plas 1500 rarity in CarSpot
The Vanden Plas 1500 is an Uncommon card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 40 out of 100. Hot hatches and premium sporty cars. An Uncommon card is worth 20 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Vanden Plas 1500 fun facts
- The car was never officially badged as an 'Allegro', as British Leyland marketed Vanden Plas as a standalone luxury marque.
- The interior featured the same high-quality Connolly leather found in the flagship Daimler Double-Six and Rolls-Royce models.
- Early models lacked the signature rear picnic tables, which were only added as standard equipment from 1975 onwards due to customer demand.