1972 Vespa Rally 180
All original parts

Registration No: Unregistered
Frame No: VSD1T 0022111
Engine No: VSD1M 0022649
CC: 180
MOT: Exempt

• USA version
• Running scooter and auto oil mix version
• Nova present for UK registration
• All original parts present including Ulma 044’s
• Excellent original basis scooter

The Piaggio industrial group was devastated by the consequences of World War 2. Amongst the projects muted to rescue the company was an idea to help mobilise the Italian public with a new transport concept ‘the motor scooter’. During trials, the buzzing noise of the engine and body shape, led to the scooter being christened the ‘Vespa’, the Italian translation for wasp. From the launch in 1946 it was such a success that it has become a symbol of taste, fashion and style and is one of the favourite global design icons of all time.

The Rally, also known as the queen of Vespas, was a large performance step up from the earlier models of the 1960s. The 180 versions were well received for their performance and appearance. Only 26,494 were produced before the 200 version replaced it. Generally based on the previous Super Sport the real star turn of the Rally was its new powerful rotary valve engine. With a larger fuel tank for longer journeys and reduction in the necessary fuel mix down to 2%, the Rally 180 really was a major improvement on the previous models. Still with classic lines the Rally is considered to be the last of the ‘real metal’ large engined Vespas before the P-range arrived with its many plastic parts.

This example was discovered in a high-rise block in New York by the vendor who returned to the UK with it in 2018, intending to use it. It is a full US specification version with sealed headlight and extended rear light (for US regulations) and is an automatic fuel mix version which was the case for all Rally’s exported to the USA. On inspection, we found that despite being over-painted it retained all of the original parts. Never welded, this as solid and straight as can be seen on the pictures. It could easily be prepared with a European version rear light, and with the original MPH speedo be very suitable for a UK buyer. All import duties and taxes have been paid and it has a Nova for UK registration. The Rally is also supplied with a rare and valuable original English language Vespa Rally operation and maintenance book.

Our consultant rode this scooter recently and the engine sounded very good. All lights were seen working at the time of consignment. The Rally will need recommissioning throughout. A rare and collectible Vespa presented in 'complete' condition.

For more information, please contact:
Paul Diamond
info@vintagescooters.co.uk
07768 313001