In the 1960s, Italian scooters built by Lambretta and Vespa were the last word in economy transport. Conceived in the 1940s for impecunious young men and women unable to afford a car, the 1960s brought greater prosperity and more disposable incomes, and that allowed scooters to take on a new rôle as a style statement. In London and around Britain, every sharp-dressed young Mod in Italian-style tailoring wanted to be seen aboard a handsome Italian scooter.
In 1966, a new Lambretta Li 150 Special would put you pretty close to the top of the tree. The Li 150 was a fairly ordinary scooter when it was introduced in 1958, but it got a lot more exciting when the Series III appeared in 1962. Compared to previous incarnations, the Series III looked much nimbler and more streamlined, hence it was known as the ‘Slimstyle’. The frame, headset, horncasting, mudguard, side panels, leg shields and footboards where redesigned to not only look slimmer and more modern, but were actually made substantially lighter.
Even more exciting, though, was the Li 150 Special of 1963, which sported panelwork from the sporty TV models, plus the distinctive octagonal headset. It was more than just cosmetic surgery that distinguished it from a normal Li. The Special had a new cylinder head and barrel which increased power output from 6½ to 8¼ bhp, and a closer-ratio gearbox.
Although originally available only in silver, by 1965 other colour schemes were offered and two supplementary models, the Silver Special and Golden Special, were introduced as special editions. Dating from the last year of Li 150 production, this attractive example was only imported into Britain five years ago. Presenting well with some light patina, the vendor has enjoyed riding it around London for several years. This is a great opportunity to acquire a genuinely useable classic scooter.AGOI6bK9i0W5dEncJpWd2E2WoARM0reTyGRycybw.jpg626.31 KB
The History and Paperwork
Nothing is known of the Lambretta’s history prior to it being registered with the D.V.L.A. in October, 2018
Purchased by the vendor from the Scooter Hub in December 2019 but offered for sale due to lack of storage space
Sold with the current logbook, registration documents from the D.V.L.A., a dating certificate from the British Lambretta Owners’ Club and invoices from Scooter Surgery totalling over £2400
Presented in its original, special-edition Metallic Grey colour scheme
Very nice condition with some patina
Ideally suited to regular use
Presented in its correct original silver colour, its metallic finish shimmering softly in the low sun, this Silver Special has the appearance of a scooter which was restored some years ago and has since seen some sympathetic use and enjoyment.
All around, it is in very good condition, although some superficial cosmetic wear is just beginning to appear to show that it has been used. In certain places, there are a few instances of chipped, scratched or flaking paint, and some minor scratches and scuffs appear on the nearside side panel and around the base of the seat, but these are all small enough not to detract from the scooter’s overall appearance. As it is, it’s certainly good enough to show off at any rally, or park outside a coffee bar with pride.
The chrome and badges are in good condition with a light patina, and the seat is likewise in good order, but lightly creased and mellowed with age. There is just one tear in the fabric at one of the front corners. The wheels present well, with a few light paint blemishes, and the tyres show no obvious signs of wear.
We don’t know enough about this scooter to know exactly what sort of life it’s had. All we do know is that it was registered with the D.V.L.A. in 2018 and was bought by the vendor as a roadworthy scooter the following year. Details of any previous mechanical work are not known, but when the vendor acquired it, he saw fit to invest heavily in it with Scooter Surgery, spending £2400 on various new parts and their installation.
A look at the invoicing from Scooter Surgery shows that the parts replaced were generally of a fairly minor nature, but by overhauling them the scooter was transformed from something which was merely useable to something that was a real pleasure to ride.
Following a recent house move, the Lambretta has seen less use but has continued to be run occasionally. Consequently, it starts with just a few kicks and has a strong, lively idle.
Bidders will be aware that this scooter, being exempt from MoT testing, has no record of ever being tested, so you are advised to inspect it to your own satisfaction before taking to the road, but we have every confidence that it is a very good machine which ought to give plenty of enjoyment over the years to come.rgKicbfTcYkZmrXTLQjqCDJC8tHuX0HvK3wTTGXz.jpg536.99 KB
The Summary
The Li 150 Special was one of the most exciting scooters money could buy in the mid-1960s, especially if it was one of the handful which came with a precious-metal finish, like the Silver and Golden Specials. It was elegant, quick and racy, and it would have made its rider the height of fashion.
This is a lovely example of a Silver Special, not in concours condition but highly presentable and ideal for riding around town, or for taking to shows and rallies. Appearing to be in very good mechanical condition, it promises to be an eye-catching classic scooter you can really enjoy.
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.*
UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Car & Classic are run through an online HPI check. On the HPI report, this vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft. It is currently not covered by a finance agreement.
A non-refundable buyer’s deposit is payable on this item, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for the applicable percentage.
