LOT 645

c.1958 Piaggio Vespa 150 Scooter Combination Registration no. not registered Frame no. to be advised Engine no. VBA1M 36996

Sold for £4,255 inc. premium

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Lot 645

c.1958 Piaggio Vespa 150 Scooter Combination
Registration no. not registered Frame no. to be advised Engine no. VBA1M 36996

The Winter Sale - including The National Motorcycle Museum Reserve Collection - Bicester Heritage|12 December 2020, 10:00 GMT|Bicester, Bicester Heritage

c.1958 Piaggio Vespa 150 Scooter Combination
Registration no. not registered
Frame no. to be advised
Engine no. VBA1M 36996

Forbidden by the victorious Allies from resuming his aviation business after WW2, Enrico Piaggio instructed his chief designer Corradino d'Ascanio to design a scooter, for which he believed a potential market existed, particularly among women. d'Ascanio's aviation background meant that he was well versed in techniques of stressed-skin construction, and these were deployed in creating the Vespa's monocoque chassis. The name 'Vespa' (wasp) is said to have been inspired by the buzzing sound made by the single-cylinder two-stroke engine. Since its introduction in 1946, millions have been made and countless different versions come and gone, yet the Vespa of today remains recognisably related to the first one made 60 years ago. Classic? Most definitely. This rare Vespa combination has been owned by a well-known car collector for many years. Apparently nicely restored, the machine presents well apart from some pitting and light surface corrosion to the brightwork and would benefit from detailing. Both the saddle and sidecar interior appear to have been re-trimmed, and the odometer reading is 0.2km, which is presumed to be the distance covered since restoration. The engine turns over; however, no attempt has been made to start it. Its mechanical condition being unknown, the machine is offered for re-commissioning and sold strictly as viewed. Close inspection advised. Offered without documents.

Footnotes

As with all Lots in the Sale, this Lot is sold 'as is/where is' and Bidders must satisfy themselves as to the provenance, condition, age, completeness, and originality prior to bidding.

Saleroom notices

We are unable to locate the frame number. Please click the link to view the walkaround video of Lot 645: click here

Additional information

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