Ep 3. Austin Allegro Vanden Plas

Wheeler Dealers is back with an all-new episode this season, and in episode 3, the focus is on the classic car Austin Allegro Vanden Plas. Mike Brewer, the show's host, takes on the challenge of finding this unique car and restoring it to its former glory.

The Austin Allegro Vanden Plas is a British-made luxury car that was first introduced in 1974. The car was initially designed to be a replacement for the popular Austin 1100/1300 range, and it was widely marketed as the ideal family car. The Vanden Plas version, in particular, was known for its plush interior, comfortable ride, and exquisite styling elements.

In this episode, Mike Brewer travels all the way to Devon in the UK in search of a pristine Austin Allegro Vanden Plas. With the help of his local contacts, he manages to track down a car that has already undergone a partial restoration. The car is in reasonable condition, but it requires a lot of work to bring it back to its former glory.

Together with Ant Anstead, his expert mechanic, Mike sets out to restore the car to its original condition. The team starts with stripping down the car and cleaning all the parts. They then carefully inspect all the mechanical and electrical components and replace any parts that are worn out or defective.

Next comes the bodywork, which involves repairing any rust and damage to the body, repainting the car using the original color, and polishing it to a high shine. The team also installs new tires, wheels, and suspension components to give the car a smooth and comfortable ride.

The interior of the car is where the Vanden Plas version truly shines. Mike and Ant take great care in restoring the car's luxurious cabin, including the leather upholstery, wooden dashboard, and other intricate design elements. They also make sure that the car's sound system is top-notch, integrating modern technology while still preserving the car's classic appeal.

Throughout the episode, Mike and Ant also share some interesting facts and details about the Austin Allegro Vanden Plas, including its history, features, and technological advances. They also talk about the challenges they face while restoring the car, from sourcing parts to troubleshooting mechanical issues.

At the end of the episode, viewers get to see the fully restored Austin Allegro Vanden Plas in all its glory. The car looks and runs like new, a true testament to Mike and Ant's expertise and dedication to their craft. The episode is a must-watch for classic car enthusiasts and anyone who appreciates fine automobile craftsmanship.

Overall, Wheeler Dealers season 26 episode 3 is a riveting and enlightening look at the Austin Allegro Vanden Plas, a classic car that is often overlooked but deserves more admiration. With its engaging hosts, expert restoration work, and educational content, the show is a true gem for car lovers everywhere.