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2019 Shannons Melbourne Winter Classic Auction
Lot
5

c1969 Vespa Sprint 150cc Scooter

$5,000

Sold

Specifications

Engine 150cc single-cylinder
Gearbox Four-speed manual
Body Work Scooter
Colour Purple
Trim Black
Wheels Steel
Brakes Drum/drum

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 using 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 (using the same clamshell speedo and tail lights) and the four-speed gearbox was introduced, along with various minor improvements to the running gear. The VBC1T model offered here was produced between 1965 and 1979, had a 6.5:1 compression ratio, Dell’Orto carburettor and the two-stroke engine delivered 5.5bhp, 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.