This is the “Mazda 787B,” a 1982 Vespa PX80 scooter transformed into a meticulous motorsport tribute by David from the Zennteifel Rollerclub in Germany. This four-year build was inspired by Mazda’s 1991 Le Mans winner, the legendary rotary-powered 787B.
David was drawn to the race car’s underdog status and aimed to create a scooter that was both an engineering statement and a faithful visual homage. The finished aesthetic perfectly recreates the iconic green and orange livery, complete with precise details like the ’91 scrutineering sticker and a subtle rotary logo engraved on the fan hub.
Custom 1982 Vespa PX80 That’s Inspired by the Mazda 787B of Le Mans
Under the racing paintwork is serious custom hardware designed for high performance. The original PX80 engine was replaced with an alloy Cosa block featuring a Malossi 221 MHR top end. David went further by crafting his own piston and a custom water-cooled head, resulting in approximately 30 horsepower at the rear tire.
The bespoke expansion chamber is a modified DSE prototype with a custom end cap inspired by the rotary engine. The chassis is equally advanced, featuring a Lambretta fork with twin dampers, custom machined clamps, and a powerful braking system utilizing a massive Casa Performance front disc and a four-piston caliper.
The final touches and bodywork showcase relentless attention to detail. A full Motogadget dash sits within a 3D-printed housing, flanked by toggle switches with period-correct “Start” and “Kill” markings. The bodywork incorporates elements like a CBR1000 front fender section and custom-made rear fenders mounted on struts for easy engine access.
The resulting scooter is a fully operational, high-performance machine; it is a mechanical love letter to Le Mans and motorsport, successfully translating a racing icon into a diminutive, breathtaking two-stroke scooter.
