Named after its maker Piaggio's immensely successful motor scooter, the Vespa 400 was first shown to the public in Monaco in 1957 and was one of the sensations of that year's Paris Salon.

The 400 was a unitary construction two-seater, with space behind the seats for luggage or two small children, and was powered by a 393cc twin-cylinder two-stroke engine mounted at the rear.

Like its scooter antecedents, the 400 relied on pre-mixed 'petroil' lubrication, though a more user-friendly system employing a separate oil reservoir and semi-automatic dispenser was soon adopted, while later models enjoyed the convenience of fully automatic lubrication.

There was a three-speed (later four-speed) gearbox, hydraulic brakes, and independent suspension all round, while other noteworthy features included rear-hinged doors and a full length folding sunroof.

Finished in white and originally registered in France, this Vespa 400 was purchased from dealer Giovanni Perrone of Rome, Italy in October 2004...