1991 APE MP501 Blue (BM361)
This is a very solid 1991 APE model MP501 that we located in Turin and restored. We performed a full body restoration addressing any flaws and minor rust issues, followed by a professional paint job in the original attractive blue shade. The bodywork was disassembled and given a very complete prep prior to painting. 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. This APE has a 190cc motor that runs superbly after our thorough refresh which included the following mechanical parts: drive shaft and coupling guards, points, belt, air filter, control cables, battery, spark plug, oil change. Brakes were bleed and brake fluid replaced. This model requires manually mixed oil and gas. Overall a very nice example in good working order with plenty of service life ahead given the quality of restoration and mechanical rebuild.
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.
1991 APE MP501 Blue
BM361
Offered at $19,750