Van Den Plas

[Michel]

On another note...

Thinking of Van Den Plas as a great body designer of the early part of the 20th century.

How many of you knew that it was a Belgian company that was based in Brussells. It made bodies to the great brands like RR and Bentley, Daimler and Princess only to end up as a 'model' designation to some sad models like the Austin MK1, 1300, Allegro and Maestro of the 60, 70s and 80s.

 

[John S]

Didn't they upgrade a few bodies on the Mini frame as well? I have a road test on the big 1950's Austin’s with the standard body and the hand made body (Aluminum) which was in fact heavier than the standard body.

 

[Michel]

Indeed they did, and here's a bit of the history of the name

http://www.austin-rover.co.uk/index.htm?vandenplasf.htm

 

[John S]

Thanks for that link Michel, it's an interisting read. They really destroyed the Van Den Plas image in the later years didn't they.

 

[Michel]

Thanks for that link Michel, it's an interesting read. They really destroyed the Van Den Plas image in the later years didn't they.

I think poor old Guillaume (Van Den Plas) would be spinning in his grave thinking about it...