LI150 SERIES I - 150cc

A classic 1959 Lambretta LI150 Series I, restored in Vietnam by Scialla Motor Scooters. The Series I introduced the LI range with its clean, elegant bodywork and dependable 150cc two-stroke engine, making it one of the defining Lambretta models of the late 1950s.

This Italian-origin scooter has been fully restored and prepared for international delivery while preserving the distinctive character and original identity of the Series I LI150.

The Genesis of the LI Legacy: Lambretta LI150 Series I (1958 to 1959)

Introduced in April 1958 and produced through late 1959, the Lambretta LI150 Series I (frame prefix 150LI) marked a foundational turning point in Innocenti's history. Replacing the earlier shaft-driven and enclosed-engine models, the Series I introduced the world to Innocenti's revolutionary engine layout—a horizontal two-stroke motor mounted centrally within a tubular steel frame, driving the rear wheel via a chain.

As a final-year 1959 model, this LI150 represents the Series I platform at its complete mechanical maturity. Built in Milan during the height of Italy's post-war industrial boom, the Series I established the architectural blueprint that powered Lambretta success for the next two decades, making an authentic 1959 example an essential cornerstone for vintage vehicle collectors.

Curvaceous Late-1950s Styling and Architectural Highlights

The visual presence of the 1959 Lambretta LI150 Series I reflects the voluptuous, elegant lines characteristic of mid-century Italian design:

• Fixed Frame-Mounted Headlamp Housing: Features a streamlined headlight cowl integrated directly into the front frame nose cone, flanked by low-mounted horn grid accents.
• Flowing "Frame Breather" Bodywork: Early-to-mid Series I models featured air intake grilles situated behind the seat on the main frame, leading into wide, flowing rear side cowls that elegantly enclose the mechanicals.
• Full-Sized Floorboards and Rubber Trim: Spacious footboards fitted with polished aluminum runners, durable rubber grip strips, and classic metallic "LI 150" badging across the leg shield.
• Robust Tubular Chassis: Built around Innocenti's heavy-gauge central steel tube frame, delivering high structural rigidity, a low center of gravity, and neutral road holding.
• Dual Single Saddles: Fitted in traditional fashion with twin sprung seats upholstered in period-correct vinyl for classic comfort during long-distance rallies.

Proven 150cc Engine Engineering and Performance Specifications

Beneath its wide steel sheet metal, the 1959 LI150 Series I houses an air-cooled, single-cylinder two-stroke 148cc engine mounted horizontally within the central chassis. Producing 6.5 horsepower at 5,300 RPM, the 150cc motor provided energetic acceleration and dependable cruising speeds of up to 53 mph (85 km/h).

Fuel induction is managed via a Dell'Orto MA19BS carburetor, offering simple adjustment and smooth fuel economy across urban commutes and open-road touring. Power transfers through a tactile 4-speed manual transmission shifted via the left handlebar rotary twist grip, driving the rear 10-inch wheel via an oil-bath duplex chain drive. The chassis features trailing-link front suspension with internal coil springs alongside a rear hydraulic shock absorber, riding on 10-inch split steel rims with expanding drum brakes.

Master Restoration by Scialla Motor Scooters

This final-year 1959 Lambretta LI150 Series I has undergone a comprehensive ground-up restoration executed by the specialists at Scialla Motor Scooters in Vietnam. The restoration balances absolute historical fidelity with turnkey performance and international export readiness:

• Authentic Chassis and Sheet Metal Preservation: Careful restoration of original Italian Innocenti frame pressings and steel bodywork, maintaining factory panel alignment, seams, and original geometry.
• Reconditioned Mechanicals: Complete overhaul of the 148cc engine, 4-speed transmission, electrical system, suspension dampers, and drum brake assemblies using high-quality components.
• Turnkey Convenience & Export Readiness: Fully prepared for international delivery, offering the buyer a turnkey collector piece ready for immediate road use, rally participation, or display without restoration delays.

Investment Potential and Collector Value of a Final-Year Series I

For classic Italian motoring aficionados, the 1959 model year occupies a prime position in Innocenti's timeline. Representing the final evolution of the original Series I production run before the introduction of the Series II in late 1959, this edition incorporates all late-series factory mechanical updates while preserving pure 1950s aesthetic charm.

Combining Italian production origin with expert restoration craftsmanship by Scialla Motor Scooters, this 1959 LI150 stands as a highly authentic, turnkey tribute to the golden age of European scooter design.

Conclusion: A Milestone of Italian History Ready for the Road

The 1959 Lambretta LI150 Series I remains an immortal monument to late-1950s speed, style, and engineering innovation. Fully restored by Scialla Motor Scooters while preserving its original Italian character and prepared for export worldwide, this turnkey LI150 offers a rare opportunity to own a foundational piece of classic Lambretta history.