Vintage Mopeds and Scooters See a European Auction Revival
In Europe, a fresh trend has emerged around vintage mopeds and scooters. These classic machines are being snapped up at auctions and generating substantial sums, a shift uncovered by Interenchères, an aggregator of offers from 330 auctions across the continent.
The question arises: is this driven by higher fuel prices, nostalgia, or a mix of both? Either way, the movement keeps old equipment out of landfills and into enthusiastic hands.
As an illustration, a PP Roussey scooter from 1956 drew attention at auction and sold for 13,800 euros, a striking figure reflecting collector demand. [Source: Interenchères auction data]
P P Roussey 1956
Likewise, a Solex model that started with an 850 euro estimate ultimately fetched 1,777 euros, underscoring the premium for well-preserved classics.
Solex 3800 1974
However, homeowners should not assume any old model like Karpaty, Riga, or Delta will command high prices. The strongest demand centers on Italian and French scooters and mopeds, particularly certain original builds in rare trim.
Some original versions with scarce configurations have sold for twice their estimated value, such as a military version of the Vespa produced under Piaggio license in the 1950s and used in Algeria during the war, which sold for 17,400 euros.
Vespa Piaggio Military
In another example, a Vespa 125 PX 30th Anniversary edition from 2009 costs around 6,125 euros, a price higher than many brand-new Primavera models still in production.
Vespa 125 PX 30th Anniversary 2009
A Motobécane AV89 from 1971 brought in 1,534 euros, about 110,000 rubles at the time of sale.
Motobecane AV89 1971
A Peugeot 103 SP Clip Electronic from 1980 changed hands for 1,210 euros, roughly 90,000 rubles, reflecting steady demand for reliable, compact classic scooters.
Peugeot 103 SP Clip Electronic 1980
Also notable is the Solex that Steve McQueen rode in the 1971 Le Mans film, which sold for 66,000 euros, a testament to the power of movie heritage in value.
Solex from the movie Le Mans
Two-wheeled favorites in Europe include Japanese mini-bikes, with Honda models drawing particular attention. Original Dax ST70 or Club variants in good condition can fetch more than 5,000 euros.
Honda Dax ST70
Rare 1980s Motocompo units drew fierce competition and eventually sold for about 4,000 euros, underscoring the niche appeal of compact urban scooters.
Motocompo 1980s
Yamaha Chappy models are also popular, often selling for upwards of 3,000 euros.
Yamaha chappy
Experts highlight that these two wheeled machines from the 70s, 80s, and 90s do not require a driver’s license in many places, thanks to engines under 125 cc. They offer a design recall of eras past and the promise of a curious journey through time. The nostalgia driving these sales resonates with buyers looking to relive student days or simple, carefree rides.
[Source: Diana Zorzi, editor-in-chief of Magazine des Enchères dInterenchères]
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