Overview Vespa 125 Hoffmann M 24 Queen

The Vespa 125 Hoffmann M 24 "Königin" is a special version of the legendary Italian scooter, which was manufactured in the early 1950s under a licence agreement with Piaggio at the Hoffmann factories in Lintorf (near Düsseldorf) in the Rhineland. It is the German counterpart to the Italian Vespa "Faro Basso", but is characterised by a number of independent developments. Between 1950 and 1954, Hoffmann produced around 50,000 to 60,000 of these scooter models, including the M 24 "Queen" with its characteristic two Headlight Units - one on the Mudguard and one on the Handlebar. To this day, enthusiasts consider it to be one of the most interesting and technically ambitious Vespa models of the era.

Model history Vespa 125 Hoffmann M 24 Queen

However, the strong interest in scooters and the growing competition from more powerful models, such as the Lambretta from Innocenti, prompted Hoffmann to develop its own models. In 1954 in particular, the design and technology underwent significant further development, resulting in the presentation of the "Hoffmann Königin". This new version impressed the trade press and many scooter enthusiasts, particularly due to the combination of two Headlight Units (on the Mudguard and Handlebar) and an adapted Engine. As Hoffmann carried out the modifications without the express consent of Piaggio, a licence dispute arose with the Italian parent company. This culminated in Piaggio terminating the licence agreement without notice. As a result, Messerschmitt took over Vespa production in Augsburg and Regensburg from the mid-1950s, while Hoffmann-Werke ran into financial difficulties and went bankrupt. During this transitional phase, both Vespas from the Hoffmann insolvency estate (from pre-produced parts kits) and newly built models from the Messerschmitt factories were produced in Germany at the same time.

The Engine of the Vespa 125 Hoffmann M 24 Queen

In the course of its unauthorised further developments, Hoffmann primarily improved the 125 cc two-stroke engine. Although the basic design still came from Piaggio, various modifications - for example to the Cylinder, Carburettor and exhaust routing - were intended to optimise both performance and handling. The Hoffmann Königin thus achieved a higher top speed in some cases and offered improved acceleration behaviour, especially compared to earlier series models.

Experts assume that the slightly revised Engine produced between 4.5 and 5 hp and was therefore more than sufficiently motorised for the time to ensure rapid progress in city traffic and on occasional cross-country journeys. In addition to the increased power, the riding comfort was also considered advanced, as Hoffmann slightly adapted the chassis set-up compared to the Italian model.

Situation on the used Vespa Hoffmann M24 Queen 125 market

Original examples of the Vespa 125 Hoffmann M 24 Königin are relatively rare on today's second-hand market. Unrestored models in particular, which are still largely in their original condition, are highly valued by collectors and often achieve high prices when well restored. As the "Königin" was only produced in comparatively small numbers for a short time and its special design makes it a real rarity, demand on the collectors' market is high.

However, you often find examples that have been modified or improperly repaired over the decades. It is therefore advisable for potential buyers to check the authenticity of the components (especially Headlight Units, bodywork elements, Engine) during an inspection and, if possible, to consult an expert or knowledgeable Vespa club. The double headlight assembly in particular is a clear indication of the Hoffmann Königin variant, but is occasionally retrofitted to other models. Original spare parts are rare and correspondingly expensive. 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 Scambios in Italy

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

Other Vespa 125 Hoffmann M 24 Queen

The Vespa 125 Hoffmann M 24 Königin has achieved cult status among Vespisti despite its short production time and the licence disputes at the time. Its history is closely linked to the economic upturn in the post-war period and the triumph of the scooter as a practical and affordable means of transport. It also represents a piece of German two-wheeler industry history, as Hoffmann's own initiative clearly broke away from the specifications from Italy and thus forged an independent path - even if this ultimately led to a rift with Piaggio.

Nowadays, the "Queen" enjoys a high reputation among classic scooter enthusiasts due to its striking appearance, manageable production numbers and technical refinements. Anyone lucky enough to own an original Vespa 125 Hoffmann M 24 Königin can look forward to an extremely rare collector's vehicle as well as an exciting piece of German Vespa history.

Special features Vespa 125 Hoffmann M 24 Queen

• Chrome front bumper

• Fog light on the mudguard

• Headlamp Peak on the Headlight Unit

• Various Frame Parts are labelled with the "Hoffmann Badge"

• Covers for spare wheel chrome-plated and also with Badge

• Spare wheel tank (Replacement Parts)

• Cheek chrome

• Suspension Arm Cover chrome with Badge

• Side Car

• "Hoffmann" saddle plate

• Emblem on the Horn Cover

• Fan without service opening

• It was painted in the colours gold, brilliant ruby red and metallic green

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