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). Upon seeing this new design for the first time, Enrico Piaggio exclaimed 'Sembra una Vespa!' (It resembles a wasp). In 1951 the motorcycle manufacturer Douglas started production of Piaggio licensed Vespa scooters in Bristol, with a market to include some Commonwealth countries as well as the UK. Westinghouse took over Douglas in 1955, and while motorcycle production was stopped in 1957, Vespa production in Britain continued until 1965. Douglas was more than a simple assembly plant for parts imported from Piaggio; many of the models made by Douglas had a high percentage of content manufactured by Douglas (cylinder heads, gear clusters, brake drums and other mechanical parts) or by UK supply companies, seats, carburettors, tyres, and some electrical components were made in the UK. Models made by Douglas were primarily the Vespa 125 and 150.

Douglas produced Vespas which were often outdated compared to current Italian models. Douglas failed to meet the production numbers hoped for by Piaggio, though after production ceased in 1965, Douglas remained the UK importer for Vespa scooters until its demise in 1982.

A stunning original example of the 150cc 1961 Vespa purchased in 2017 by our vendor, it is presented in cream with beautifully trimmed tan leather seats. The desirable two seat configuration and chrome work adds fabulous appeal and this Douglas built example is a full matching numbers, original example boasting very low mileage. Popular as the perfect collector additions to any showroom or man cave but equally it could be a retro mode of transport as it is fully UK registered with a V5 registration document. Having been kept in a heated and dehumidified collection, viewing is highly recommended. Consigned by Mathew Priddy

Lot details
Year: 1961
Make: Piaggio
Model: Vespa Douglas
Registration: 661 UYR
Chassis No: VBB1T071135
Odometer: 26,337

* Full matching numbers example
* Low mileage original example in stunning order
* Part of the Shamley collection