Vespa Ape · 1956–1967
Ape C: history and buying advice
The Ape gets a cab and becomes a real little truck.
History
In 1956 came the Ape C, a much revised model with a closed cab. The driver now sat in the dry and the engine was under the seat. The Ape C could carry up to about 350 kilos and was launched with a big advertising campaign.
You started it by hand, but an electric starter was available as an extra. With its 150 cc two-stroke and 5 percent premix it was a simple, strong workhorse. The Ape C stayed in production until 1967.
Key data
| Engine | 1 cylinder, two-stroke, premix 5% |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 150 cc |
| Payload | approx. 350 kg |
| Cab | yes, closed; engine under the seat |
| Starting | by hand, electric as an option |
What to check when buying
- Watch for rust in the cab, the floor and under the load bed.
- Check the clutch and the gearbox; they have often done heavy work.
- Check that the electric starter (if fitted) works.
- Use the right premix: 5 percent on this model.
- Ask about the papers and whether it is registered.
SourcesWikipedia: Piaggio Ape (English)Piaggio: Ape 1948–2019 (English)
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