Delightfully original Vespa 400
Untouched interior retaining much of its original character
Attractive light blue paintwork with authentic patina
Characteristic air-cooled two-cylinder two-stroke engine
Fully driveable and in working mechanical order
Anyone who associates the name Vespa exclusively with scooters is overlooking an equally charming and unusual excursion into the world of the motor car. Introduced in 1957, the Vespa 400 was conceived as a simple and affordable response to the growing demand for personal mobility. Although developed by Piaggio, the little car was not built in Italy but by ACMA in Fourchambault, France.
Its concept was resolutely focused on the essentials. Mounted at the rear was an air-cooled two-cylinder two-stroke engine of just under 400 cc, driving the rear wheels. With a weight of only around 360 kilograms, its modest power output was quite sufficient to carry the Vespa through town and countryside as intended. Another characteristic feature was its fabric roof, which could be opened well back and gave the tiny two-door car something approaching the character of a convertible.
This Vespa 400 was built in 1961 and is presented in attractive light blue. Particularly appealing is its delightfully original state of preservation. The untouched interior retains much of its original character, while the paintwork displays an appropriate patina. Rather than having the passing decades erased by restoration, this little French car has been allowed to wear its age with considerable charm.
Mechanically, the Vespa is fully driveable. It therefore combines original substance with genuine usability – and provides a charming reminder of an era when just under 400 cc was considered quite sufficient to power an entire motor car.