The Vespa has evolved from a single model motor scooter manufactured in 1946 by Piaggio & Co. of Pontedera, Italy. Designed by Renzo Spolti and Vittorio Casini and known as the MP5 (Moto Piaggio no.5). From its inception the Vespa scooter has been known for its painted, pressed steel unibody, which combines a complete cowling for the engine, a flat floorboard and a prominent front fairing. Upon seeing this new design for the first time, Enrico Piaggio exclaimed ‘Sembra una Vespa!’ (It resembles a wasp). The new scooter had been named. This iconic design has featured in displays at the Guggenheim in New York and the Pompidou centre in Paris.

This scooter evokes the heady, sharp suited days of the 60’s Mod era. This scooter has been wrapped to give a chrome effect and fitted with the mirrors and flag detailing of a classic Brighton cruiser. Purchased by a private collector in 2018, it has driven one mile since, but has been maintained ‘in house’.

We believe that this Vespa featured in Episode Two of the first series of the Simon Callow television drama, The Rebel. We are advised by the HPI check that this scooter is listed as a category C insurance loss and is supplied with a V5 registration document. There is no better way to take a trip down memory lane than on this modern version of a motoring and design icon. Consigned by Dominic Lake.