http://ventura.craigslist.org/mcy/1941344526.html
I know it's not a Vespa - and it's a little spendy (a lot spendy), but MAN this thing is in beautiful condition.
Make/Model: 1956 Lambretta Model D 150 mk III
VIN: 56LAMBD150
Color: Green
Accent: Brown
Condition: Pre-owned, Clear Title
Mileage: 10
Engine: 150cc
Warranty: As Is - No Warranty
"1956 Lambretta Model D 150 (Mark 3) They started as cheap post-World War II transportation in Italy. became a fashion statement in the 50's and 60's, then died out the 1970's and resurrected again as fuel efficient transportation in the 21st century. These are Italian scoters from both Vespa and Lambretta (Innocenti the manufacturer). They were designed to provide basic transportation in post-war Europe. December 1951 saw Innocenti introduce the 125 D which sported a re-designed frame (of the tubular variety), with the petrol tank under the front seat, a box under the passenger seat and shortened leg shields. Bicycle style handlebars were fitted and underneath these was a large round headlamp. The Model 'D' started life in December of 1951, when a 125cc (123cc) version was introduced. The 'D' was basically an update of the earlier 'C' with many improvements being made. The looks and framework of the D pretty much stayed the same as the earlier C model, tubular in design, with the same layout for the fuel tank and rear toolbox. The engine was a new design; it still had a cast iron cylinder and an air-cooled aluminum cylinder head. The 3-speed gearbox was operated via a single teleflex gear cable. Finned drum brakes at the front and rear of the scooter provided its stopping power, the rear brake being rod operated. At the rear of the scooter, just above the number plate, a small round brake light was fitted. Unlike previous models the front fork tubes now enclosed the front suspension springs and the rear suspension was provided by means of a torsion bar. The 125 D was available in a choice of color schemes; gray, beige and green. On either side of the petrol tank were Lambretta decals. A larger engine I50cc brother joined the 125 D models in October of 1954; the larger engine featured the cylinder and flywheel cowls similar to the Lusso models. Gone was the direct air cooling for the large engine machines, as was the single teleflex gear cable, being replaced by twin "push and pull" cables. The exhaust system of the 150 was redesigned and feature a rear chrome silencer exhaust, often being nicknamed the "coffee pot". For the first time a damper unit was fitted to the torsion bar suspension, to aid in the ride comfort. With the higher output of the I50cc engine unit came a higher 55mph top speed, although Innocenti still quoted economy at around I40mpg. This evolved into the Model D 150 (Mark 3), which this is an example and had small changes from the previous series, which included the location of a battery for parking lights, horn and brake light. This was mounted on the kick-start side, on a purpose built tray to the side of the toolbox. The exhaust reverted to a single silencer unit, dispensing with the extra silencer as found on the second series. The leg shields sported a D150 badge in chrome, while the Lambretta name was still in the form of stickers on each side of the fuel tank. This is a gorgeous restored example of an icon. $10,500.00"
