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2013 Shannons Sydney Autumn Classic Auction
Lot
E

1964 Vespa 150cc Scooter

$1,800

Sold

Specifications

Engine Single-cylinder,150cc
Gearbox 4-speed manual
Colour Red/White/Blue
Trim Black

Description

This lot is no longer available

The Vespa has become something of a cult object in recent years, worshipped by enthusiasts around the world and thoroughly transcending the original design brief to provide cheap transportation to millions of Italians. Popularised through the use of clever marketing and an association with celebrities, the Vespa is perhaps best remembered for its role in "Roman Holiday" starring Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck. The Vespa has become the Godfather of scooters and can be found on pavements outside the hippest cafes and bars today thanks to the recent revival. In 1960 the styling of the standard Vespa 150 was upgraded to GS specification (with that models clamshell speedo and tail lights) and the four-speed gearbox was introduced, along with various minor improvements to the running gear. The VBB2T series example offered here was produced between 1962 and 1967 and featured a 6.5:1 compression ratio, Dell'Orto carburettor and the two-stroke engine delivered 5.5 bhp, driving through a constant mesh transmission. A classic Vespa scooter makes an ideal choice of commuter vehicle, being reliable, easy and cheap to maintain but with loads of style.