[SMALL TALK by Shinichi Osawa] post#016 Vandenplas Princess

Nov 14, 2013

Earlier this summer, I purchased a Vanden Plas Princess, a car I've always wanted to own.
For certain reasons, I've only owned it for about a year, but it's a lot of fun.
It's a 1971 car, but it's been fitted with a cooling system, additional brake servos, retractable seatbelts, and other features to make it more comfortable for modern driving. The exterior and engine are in excellent condition.
If I had to find a flaw, it would be that, as it's an early front-wheel drive car, the turning radius is surprisingly large and the steering is a little heavy (though the weight isn't noticeable as long as you're moving even a little).
When I drive an old car, I'm reminded of the joy of driving.
Absolute speed isn't that important, but rather, I feel a strong sense of ownership and control over the car.
I'll have to find a new owner in a few months, but it's a really great car.

For a detailed history of the Vandenplas Princess, please see:
http://www.garage-nichiei.jp/vpppre.html
大沢伸一
  • Vandenplas Princess
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