If any two-wheeler inspires as much affection as Fiat’s Cinquecento it’s the Vespa, and with serendipitous timing Piaggio is about to launch a second retro version of the 61-year-old scooter.
Called the Vespa S, it’s based on the existing 50cc and 125cc LX models with styling revamped for a 1970s look. The leaner handlebar area is distinguished by a square instead of round headlamp while the mudguards are cut back to reveal more of the suspension.
But the most effective change visually is the removal of the bulky plastic on the inside of the legshield, revealing the shape of the steel chassis spine typical of older Vespas.
In the true spirit of Italian vehicle manufacturers, Piaggio can’t tell us prices or availability dates, but expect it to cost about £2,000 for the 50 and £2,500 for the 125, with showroom appearances in autumn or winter.
We’ll be reporting on the Vespa S in about a month (the press launch date has suffered from maybe-next-week-itus, too) but if you fancy a Cinquecento-matching Vespa in the meantime there’s always the 250GTV, out since last summer and styled in sympathy with the original 1946 Vespa, including a period mudguard-mounted headlight, exposed handlebars and sprung saddle. That’s available now for £4,011.
*We’ll keep you posted on any hints we get regarding her possible US arrival.
Mon, Jul 9, 2007
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