Description
National Motorcycle Museum | Solihull, West Midlands
26th March 2025 9:00AM
1965 Vespa SS180 Super Sport
Estimate
£5, 000 - £7, 000
Registration No: HLR 67C
Frame No: VSC1T 0010097
MOT: Exempt
British registered from new
Mostly original parts throughout
Appears completely standard and still 6v on standard engine
Correct numbers with engine just 41 apart
V5 present for use on UK roads
The Vespa SS180 introduced in late 1964 was at the time the fastest production model Piaggio had ever made. Superseding the GS160 Mk2 it was initially going to be designated the GS Mk3 as Vespa archives state. It retained the large tool box on the inside of the leg shield from the GS160 Mk2 and with 10 inch wheels and 4 gears its 181cc motor produced 10HP and gave a top speed of 65MPH. It was the last Vespa model with a piston ported engine. The most noticeable feature is the trapezoidal headlight which it shared with smaller sister models the GL150 and 125. Around 35700 were produced between 1964 and 1968 and today these are highly sought after as fast and elegant and seen as the height of 60s modernist style.
This genuine Italian SS180 registered from new in 1965 in Great Britain would have been sold by Vespa Douglas (Sales and Service) Ltd and has the correct key ignition of the early examples. Upon close examination it is in good order with no evidence of having had any major repairs except strengthening of the original floor which has not been changed. The panels are in good order all over the machine and of particular note is the original factory stickers are still inside each of the side panels. Many of the original parts seen include: The full lights front and back are Siem, the seat appears to be original with possibly a very authentic new cover. The badges appear original with some anodisation to prove their age, original horn and original speedometer are present. The engine appears as standard 180cc with original SS180 carburettor. We were able to see the scooter start easily and run well at the time of consignment as can be seen on the accompanying video. The scooter is supplied with an original and valuable original Vespa Douglas Super Sport 180cc Operation and Maintenance booklet.
