Overview Vespa Hoffmann A/B

The Vespa Hoffmann A/B represents a chapter in German scooter history. Between 1950 and 1953, Hoffmann-Werke Lintorf near Düsseldorf produced the Vespa under licence from Piaggio and offered two variants of the popular Italian scooter, the A and B models. Both models had Vespa's typical sheet steel monocoque frame with a free step-through and were considered modern, easy-to-handle two-wheelers for the rapidly growing post-war market in Germany.

Model history Vespa Hoffmann A/B

The co-operation between Piaggio and Hoffmann-Werke was established after the great success of the Vespa in Italy in order to better serve the German market. Hoffmann thus took over production based on the Italian Vespa 125 concept, but adapted details to German regulations and customer requirements. While the early A version adopted the basic technology of the Italian Vespa, the B version featured minor modifications and optimisations. Both remained closely linked to the original design, which was reflected in the characteristic appearance with the curved Legshield, the side cheeks and the space-saving body structure. The licence agreement ended in 1953 after Piaggio wanted to concentrate more on its own structures abroad and the Hoffmann factories got into financial difficulties.

The Engine of the Vespa Hoffmann A/B

The centrepiece of the Vespa Hoffmann A/B is an air-cooled single-cylinder two-stroke engine with a capacity of 125 cc. This unit delivered between four and five hp to the rear wheel and, depending on the version, reached speeds of around 60 to 70 km/h, which was perfectly adequate for local traffic and short cross-country journeys. The manual gearbox integrated into the Handlebar made the scooter easy to steer and offered uncomplicated operation, especially for beginners. The reliability of the engines had already been tried and tested in Italy and was also convincing in Germany on everyday journeys and short trips.

Used Vespa Hoffmann A/B market situation

As the Vespa Hoffmann A/B was only produced for a few years, surviving examples are comparatively rare. Collectors and Vespa enthusiasts value them above all for their historical value and special history, which differs significantly from regular Piaggio Vespas. Well-restored vehicles or completely original examples fetch high prices on the classic car market. However, the supply of spare parts can be challenging because certain components were only manufactured in small quantities. However, specialised workshops and clubs provide support in the search for suitable parts and for restorations. Where do you look for this vehicle?

• At your trusted Vespa dealer

• Classified adverts in the local newspaper

• Markets and trade fairs such as Mostra Scambio in Italy

• Online marketplaces such as www.mobile.de, www.autoscout24.de etc.

Other Vespa Hoffmann A/B

The brief era of the Hoffmann Vespa is a piece of German post-war history and illustrates the importance of co-operation in vehicle construction at that time. Technically, Models A and B offered hardly any major differences to the Italian model, but they combined an independent appearance - including customised instruments and seats - with the flair of an original Vespa. Accordingly, the Hoffmann Vespas have become coveted collector's items and are always eye-catchers at classic car events, reminiscent of the early days of the scooter boom in Germany.

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