1996 APE MP501 Blue (BM360)
This is a late production 1996 APE model MP501 that we found in northern Italy and restored. It had been in storage or some time and was in very good condition before the restoration was started with only 15,862 miles (25,528 km) showing, believed to be accurate. It has a 190cc motor and given the low mileage all was found to be in good woking order after a fluid change and tune up. Brakes were bleed and brake fluid replaced. The bodywork was disassembled and given a very complete prep prior to painting. The paint job was very professional and complete. All rust issues were very minor and they were corrected with "rust stop" before primer and new paint. Interior is in very clean condition and all systems in good working order. Overall a very nice example in good working order with plenty of service life ahead given the low mileage.
PIAGGIO APE BACKGROUND:
Piaggio developed the APE ( pronounced "ah-pay" - Italian for "Honey Bee" ) in 1947 as a light duty, urban delivery vehicle and it became an instant success. The APE has been in continuous production since its inception and has been produced in a variety of different body styles in Italy and India. It has a proven reputation as a tough, practical and very economical transport for many commercial uses. The design is based on a very rugged chassis adaptable to multiple body styles/configurations and powered by a reliable and simple single cylinder engine with high specific torque and very low gearing that allows the APE to haul significant payloads at relaxed, but perfectly urban, velocities.
The APE enjoyed continued design evolution and by1965 was quite well developed and very dependable. In many ways it is similar to the latest version actually still in production in India - but way cuter!
The three-wheeled chassis allows the APE to be registered as a motorcycle which is an additional economy. Steering is via scooter style handlebars, and the cabin is roomy for a single driver, but can also accommodate a passenger (with a snug fit). There are doors on each side door, perfect for making deliveries to each side of the road. Parking ease and maneuverability are outstanding.
Performance is well suited to the job of light delivery, with good torque for hills but a modest top speed ( 35 mph ), which is adequate in the urban settings, gated communities or special circumstances for which it was designed. Handling is unique, but serviceable when the limitations of the tricycle layout are observed.
The APE is a very serious workhorse, which belies its cuteness with the ability to provide very useful service in many situations and applications. In Italy, India and other third-world locales thousands of APEs are in daily service and often the favored vehicle for light duty delivery.
1996 APE MP501 Blue
BM360
Offered at $18,750