1959 VESPA 400

KEY FACTS

• A fantastic example of the exceptionally rare microcar, which has received a concours-quality restoration.
• It is powered by a 398cc two-stroke air-cooled straight-twin, coupled to a three-speed manual transmission with second and third gear synchromesh, plus reverse.
• One of only 160 with the rare glovebox door.
• The Vespa has only covered around 300km since the professional restoration, and remains in superb order.
• It was first registered in France in January 1959, though has been in the UK for seven years, and is now re-registered with the DVLA.

EQUIPMENT AND FEATURES

• Built from 1957 through to 1961, the Vespa 400 is one of the most practical, fun and usable microcars available. It can seat two in comfort and will run happily at 50-55mph all day long.
• With a dry weight of just 360kg, fully independent suspension, and dimensions of just 9ft by 4ft, the Vespa offers sprightly performance around town.
• A lesser-known microcar compared to the likes of the BMW Isetta or Peel P50, the Vespa 400 is nimble and handles well, and offers impressive build quality from Piaggio thanks to its expertise in scooters and aircraft.
• Their reliability has been well proven, not least with several competing in the classic Monte Carlo rally in 2017 and 2018, and with all cars completing the race.
• Discovered as a genuine ‘barn find’ in 2015, this particular Vespa had been in single family ownership from new, and has since been brought back to a remarkable standard.
• One of only 160 examples fitted with the rare glovebox door, this Vespa also features a rear luggage rack, luggage hooks and a locking engine cover.
• The car has been fitted with a more reliable Gammatronix electronic ignition, though the vendor notes this can be removed in favour of the original system.
• It is accompanied by its owner’s manuals, a French registration/tax disc from 1977 and a large photographic record of the restoration process.

CONDITION

• Having been fully restored, the bodywork is in superb order with no damage.
• Its resprayed green paintwork is in outstanding condition, and the underside is also in great shape as the photo gallery shows.
• Inside, its green check cloth upholstery is similarly pristine, with no wear or damage whatsoever.
• No electrical faults have been detected.
• The most recent MOT test was on 19 October 2018 at 43,262 km, which was a clean pass with no advisories or defects.

SERVICE HISTORY

• Its last routine service was performed alongside the restoration work, which was undertaken at around 43,200 km and involved a comprehensive rebuild of the engine, gearbox, suspension, brakes, running gear, bodywork and electrics, before a full interior re-trim.

SUMMARY

This Vespa 400 is a meticulously restored example of the rear-engine microcar, with a smart green finish, a pristine cabin and upgraded electronic ignition. It is an exceptionally rare sight on the road, offers practical performance for its size, and would make a charming addition to a collection of unusual classics.

The description of this auction lot is, to the best of the seller's knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Collecting Cars requests a range of detail about the lot from the seller, and performs a level of due diligence. However, bidders must satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description, and conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to a bid. Please see our Terms and Conditions for full details.

All UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Collecting Cars are run through an online HPI check. On the HPI report, this vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and has no finance owing. Bidders should note that a Ferrari that shares a five-digit VIN with this car does show on HPI under a finance agreement, but the Vespa is clear.