1939 Benelli 500 Tipo E Pre-War Mototriciclo Project – 493cc – Utility Tricycle Conversion
A rare and unusual pre-war Benelli powered utility tricycle project, fitted with a 493cc Benelli Tipo E single-cylinder engine, engine number 40-2029, dating from circa 1938–1940.
The original engine plate is present and stamped:
Motore Benelli – Pesaro Italia Tipo E – Alesaggio 85 – Corsa 87 – Cilindrata 493
This specification corresponds to the late pre-war Benelli 500cc models produced immediately prior to WWII.
The machine is built as a three-wheel utility / cargo conversion, with extended frame, rear axle assembly, and load bed fitted, typical of period agricultural, industrial, or delivery adaptations carried out in Europe both before and shortly after the war.
The rear body is fitted with a replacement wooden cargo box, not believed to be original but in keeping with the style of working transport vehicles of the period.
The machine is offered as a restoration project, incomplete and not inspected internally. Some parts may be missing and the vehicle is sold exactly as seen.
An unusual and highly collectable pre-war Benelli-engined machine, suitable for restoration, display, or collection.
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Key Points
Circa 1939 Benelli powered utility tricycle project
Benelli Tipo E single-cylinder engine
493cc (85 × 87) pre-war specification
Engine number 40-2029
Original Benelli engine plate fitted
Period three-wheel cargo / mototriciclo conversion