MP5 Paperino
1943
1943
Towards the end of the Second World War, Enrico Piaggio was driven to start up production again by the idea of offering the widest possible market low-cost product. And, with this in mind, the factory at Biella produced a motor-scooter (1943-1944).
This prototype, designed by the engineer Renzo Spolti and coded MP5 (Moto Piaggio 5), was christened "Paperino", which means "Donald Duck", by the workers.
But Enrico Piaggio didn’t like it, and passed the job over to Corradino D’Ascanio to review the project and build something different, more advanced both technically and stylistically.
However, before evolving into the Vespa, about one hundred Paperinos were produced, which are today highly prized by collectors.
Engine: Two-stroke single cylinder
Bore: 50 mm
Stroke: 50 mm
Displacement: 98 cc
Gearbox: Continuous speed-variator
Transmission: chain or cardan
Top speed: 60 km/h
Suspension: 2 tubular holders with springs
Brakes: drum
Tires: 4.00-10
Vespa MP6 Prototype
1945
1945
At the end of the Second World War, Enrico Piaggio gave Corradino D’Ascanio the job of designing a simple vehicle that was tough, economic, and elegant. It had to be easily rideable by anybody without dirtying their clothes, and have a seat for a passenger.
D’Ascanio, who was not a great lover of motorbikes as such, drew up a completely original vehicle. Digging into his aeronautics background he came up with the idea of a vehicle mounted on a chassis with the gear change on the handlebars. He also put the drive on the rear wheel so creating a highly original wheel-mounted engine grouping. The front suspension arm, looking a bit like aircraft landing gear, made changing the wheel much easier.
This prototype, the MP6, was still without a name when in September 1945 it was presented to Enrico Piaggio, who exclaimed, “It looks like a wasp!”
Engine: Two-stroke single cylinder engine, with the cylinder in iron and the cylinder head in light alloy.
Bore: 50 mm
Stroke: 50 mm
Displacement: 98 cc
Top speed: 38 mph
Suspension: elastic with a steel spring on the front wheel and rubber pads near the rear wheel and engine
Brakes: drums
Tires: 3.50-8
Switzerland
1946
1946
Vespa brochure, designed by MArtinelli
Vespa 98
1946
1946
The “motoleggera utilitarian” Vespa, or light motorized runabout, was presented to the public for the first time in April 1946 at the Rome golf club. The leg shield sported the new Piaggio logo, which replaced the former aeronautical emblem. The fortnightly magazines la Moto and Motociclismo dedicated their covers to the Vespa and the new scooter sparked off curiosity and surprise, but also a certain skepticism among the public. The first fifty vehicles were produced at the Pontedera factory at the same time of the official presentation. For the first few months the Vespa was marketed by the Lancia dealer network, and a total of 2,484 were produced in that first year. And so the adventure of the world’s most famous scooter began.
Engine: Two-stroke single cylinder engine. Horizontal cast iron with press-fit cylinder in iron and light alloy head.
Bore: 50 mm
Stroke: 50 mm
Displacement: 98 cc
Top speed: 60 km/h
Suspension: elastic with spiral steel springs on the front wheel and rubber buffers for the rear wheel
Brakes: drums
Tires: 3.50-8
Vespa 98 Series 2
1947
1947
The second series of the Vespa 98 (1947), of which 16,500 units were produced, included significant improvements over the preceding model, design-wise as well as in terms of technical and practical aspects. The front mudguard no longer had a hatch opening, and it had been reduced in size to make wheel changing easier in case of a puncture, a frequent occurrence in the post-war period because of bad roads. Magazines of the period noted that potential customers had to wait eight months for their Vespa 98. This led to the creation of a flourishing black market, with Vespas being sold at as much as double their normal retail price.
Engine: Two-stroke single cylinder engine. Horizontal cast iron with press-fit cylinder in iron and light alloy head.
Bore: 50 mm
Stroke: 50 mm
Displacement: 98 cc
Top speed: 60 km/h
Suspension: elastic with spiral steel springs on the front wheel and rubber buffers for the rear wheel
Brakes: drums
Tires: 3.50-8
Vespa 98cc Race
1947
1947
The first fabulous race Vespa was conceived for participation in various race circuits. With it, in 1947 Piaggio dealers could enter in speed contests. The Vespa in fact took part in several gradlent and track races, with many victories in the scooter category, among which the Naples Grand Prix in 1947 and the chronograph climb at Rocca di Papa (Rome).
The Vespa 98 Corsas form derived from the standard production model, but it had a much smaller, bubble-shaped shield and small handlebars. The horn was taken off the steering column cover and seat is placed far back, so that the rider had to stretch to reach the handlebars. The rear brakes were also retracted to suit the riders elongated, aerodynamic position.
Engine: Two-stroke single cylinder enginewith cast iron horizontal cylinder and aluminum head
Bore: 50 mm
Stroke: 50 mm
Displacement: 98 cc
Top speed: 80 km/h
Suspension: spiral springs on the front wheel, leaf springs on the rear wheel
Brakes: drums
Tires: 3.50-8
Vespa 98cc Race (Circuit)
1947
1947
The creative genius of Piaggio’s engineers, which had led to the appearance of the first Vespa on Italian roads in 1946, was confirmed a few months later by the emergence of a real jewel from the experimental division of the Pontedera workshops.
The Vespa 98 Corsa was built with the specific objective of showing the world that a small scooter could be extremely competitive on the circuit.
In 1946 Vespa 98 Corsa (Circuit) was hence built for speed in its category and represented a concentration of innovative ideas to be tried out on standard production. It mounted the steering column and suspension on the right, a solution that would be applied to the Vespa 125 from 1948 on. The body was handbuilt on a steel frame.
Engine: Two-stroke single cylinder engine with cast iron horizontal cylinder and aluminum head
Bore: 50 mm
Stroke: 50 mm
Displacement: 98 cc
Top speed: 100 km/h
Suspension: spiral springs and shock absorber on the front wheel, leaf springs on the rear wheel
Brakes: drums
Tires: Pirelli of the corsa type, 3.50-8
Vespa 125
1948
1948
In 1948, Piaggio launched its new Vespa. From 1946 to 1947, 1,183 Vespas had been produced with 125 cc engine rise and the frame of the 98 model, which had been sold abroad. At the end of 1947, Enrico Piaggio decided to completely stop production of the Vespa 98 a new 125 cc model in Italy too. With respect to the original model of 1946, the engine size had been increased to 125 cc, and shock-absorber mounted on the rear wheel offered a more comfortable ride. The front wheel suspension had been modified too, with the arm being mounted to the right of the wheel, where it would remain for years to come. The 1949 version is slightly modified with improvement in its cooling system and gear control.
Engine: Two-stroke single cylinder engine with cast iron cylinder and the cylinder head in light alloy
Bore: 50 mm
Stroke: 50 mm
Displacement: 125 cc
Top speed: 70 km/h
Suspension: helicoidal spring on the front wheel, elastic with helicoidal spring hydraulic shock-absorber on the rear wheel
Brakes: drums
Tires: 3.50-8
France
1949
1949
Vespa est le scooter le plus diffusedans le monde (Vespa is the most widely distributed scooter in the world) brochure.
Italy
1949
1949
Vespa is the most largely distributed motor scooter in the world brochure.
Italy - Vespa 125cc brochure
1949
1949
Why the Vespa 125cc is the best selling in the world brochure.
United Kingdom - Vespa 125cc brochure 1
1949
1949
Why the Vespa 125cc is the best selling in the world brochure.
United Kingdom - Vespa 125cc brochure 2
1949
1949
Why the Vespa 125cc is the best selling in the world brochure.
Vespa 125 Corsa 'telaio in lega'
1949
1949
In 1949 the Vespa 125 Corsa was manufactured, the frame was of aluminum alloy used in aircraft construction and assembled using alloy rivets, an avant-garde technological feature for the time. The larger fuel tank stretched towards the steering column, and was intended to offer increased range and optimize riding at high speed. The Vespa 125 Corsa took part in several city races, notching up man prestigious victories: in1950 Giuseppe Cau and Dino Mazzoncini gain the first and second place at the Bolgona Grand Prix; in the same year Cau wins on the Perugia with the Vespa 98 Corsa n.38.
Engine: Two-stroke single cylinder
Bore: 53 mm
Stroke: 56 mm
Displacement: 125 cc
Top speed: 130 km/h
Suspension: helicoidal spring and calipers shock-absorber on the front wheel, rubber pad and leaf spring shock-absorber on the rear wheel
Brakes: drums
Tires: corsa type, 3.00-10
Vespa 125 Circuit
1949
1949
Towards the end of the 1940s most motorcycle constructors considered that the best way to publicize their products was to participate in the various motorcycles races that were generally held on town roads. The scope was to bring people closer to motorcycling and create potential customers. Piaggio did not want to be left behind and equipped a series of circuit scooters, like this 1949 example, to race in the categories reserved for them, making its mark right from the start and leaving behind all the other scooters. The Vespa 125 Circuit and previous circuit models were totally hand built by the specialists of the company’s experimental division and were used in races until the end of the 1950s by the official riders Dino Mazzoncini and Giuseppe Cau, who in 1950 wins the chronometer race Catani-Etna, gaining the first place in his category (125cc).
Engine: Two-stroke
Bore: 56.5 mm
Stroke: 50 mm
Displacement: 125 cc
Top speed: 100 km/h
Suspension: front with coil spring, rear with rubber stopper
Brakes: drums
Tires: 3.50-8
Italy - Vespizzatevi!
1950
1950
Vespizzatevi! (Vespa yourselves!) advertising campaign, design by Ferenzi.
Vespa Monthery
1950
1950
In order to promote the sporting image of the Vespa, Piaggio turned its attention to record breaking in the hope of reviving a glorious post-war tradition. On April 7 1950, on France’s Monthery circuit, these riders took turns as the Vespa spent 10 consecutive hours acquiring 17 world records: over 1 hour (average speed 134 km/h); over 100 miles (average 129.7 km/h), 500 miles (average 123.9 km/h), 1,000 km (average 124.3 km/h), and over 10 hours during which the Vespa covered 1,049 km.
On a streamlined vehicle similar to this (the Vespa 125 Circuit alloy frame of 1949) rider Dino Mazzoncini also performed brilliantly in track races, most memorably in the head-to-head between Vespa and Lambretta that took place on the Genoa Circuit (Corsa Italia) and ended in a victory for Vespa in the motor class.
Engine: Two-stroke
Bore: 53 mm
Stroke: 56 mm
Displacement: 125 cc
Top speed: 136.92 km/h average
Suspension: front with coil spring, rear with rubber pad
Brakes: drums
Tires: 3.00-10 (for races)
Vespa 'Siluro'
1951
1951
In 1951, Vespa set off to challenge the most prestigious speed trial: that of the standing kilometer.
On the 9th of February, between the 10th and 11th kilometer on the Rome-Ostia motorway, a Vespa with two horizontally opposed pistons designed by Corradino D’Ascanio and driven by the test-driver Dino Mazzoncini, beat all standing kilometer records with a time of 21.4 seconds and an average speed of 171.1 km/h.
The engine’s two drive-shaft were connected by cogs and each cylinder was served by a separated carburetor, outflow controlled by the piston on the magneto side. Liquid cooled with radiator on the left side.
Engine: Two-stroke single cylinder with opposed pistons
Bore: 42 mm
Stroke: 45 mm
Displacement: 124.5 cc
Suspension: helicoidal spring at the front and shock-absorber with calipers; rear with rubber pad and shock-absorber with calipers
Brakes: drums
Tires: 3.00-10 (for races)
Vespa 125 - 1951
1951
1951
Very similar to the 1948 model, the 1951 Vespa was more comfortable, especially because of the addition of a hydraulic shock absorber to the front wheel. The major difference was the gear change, with soft control cables replacing the earlier push-rod linkage. From an aesthetical point of view, the rear lamp, round in the earlier models, was now rectangular; the saddle had a new color and design – it was closed in front to hide suspension movement. Very popular in those years, this was the model on which Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck made their romantic escapade in the unforgettable “Roman Holiday” movie.
Engine: Two-stroke single cylinder engine
Bore: 56.5 mm
Stroke: 49.8 mm
Displacement: 125 cc
Top speed: 70 km/h
Suspension: elastic with coil spring and hydraulic shock absorber on both wheels
Brakes: drums
Tires: 3.50-8
Vespa 125 Sei Giorni
1951
1951
This was a vehicle developed for trial racing, in which it enjoyed considerable success. Its styling was very similar to that of the standard models, except for a larger fuel tank, wraparound leg shield and a larger right side sack to house the carburetor on the cylinder. It earned its name by competing in the 26th International 6-Day Event of 1951, at which it won nine gold medals. The Piaggio racing team was composed of: Biasci, CAu, Granchi, Mazzoncini, Merlo, Nesti, Opessi, Riva, Romano and Vivaldi. In 1951 the Vespa 125 Sei Giorni also won the Motorcycle Italian Federation Trophy.
Engine: Two-stroke single cylinder engine
Bore: 54 mm
Stroke: 54 mm
Displacement: 124.2 cc
Top speed: 95 km/h
Suspension: elastic with coil spring on the front wheel, elastic with coil spring and hydraulic damper on the rear wheel
Brakes: cast-iron drums with large cooling fins
Tires: 3.50-8
Italy - Vespa advertisement
1953
1953
Vespa advertisement with a view of Bologna, original sketch , approx.
Italy - Vespa calendar
1953
1953
1953 Vespa Calendar, designed by Franco Mosca.
Italy - Vespa calendar I
1953
1953
1953 Vespa calendar, designed by Franco Mosca.
Vesp 125 U
1953
1953
Only 7,000 of this Vespa U were produced, and so today it is amont those scooters most sought after by collectors. It was launched in 1953 as an economy model, the U standing for utility, and its price of the public of 110,000 lire was intended to offset competition by Lambretta.
For the first time, a Vespa aimed at the Italian market mounted the highlight on the handlebars rather than on the front mudguard.
Engine: Two-stroke single cylinder engine with deflector piston
Bore: 56.5 mm
Stroke: 49.8 mm
Displacement: 124.85 cc
Top speed: 40.38 km/h
Suspension: helicoidal spring on the front wheel, hydraulic shock-absorber with helicoidal springon the rear wheel
Brakes: drums
Tires: 3.50-8
France - Vespa yourselves!
1954
1954
Vespa yourselves! advertising campaign, Bernard Villemot.
Italy - Vespa calendar II
1954
1954
1954 Vespa calendar, designed by Franco Mosca.
Denmark
1954
1954
Vespa brochure.
Vespa 150 GS
1955
1955
This is the evolution of the Vespa 150 (VBA), presented in 1958, with very few changes. The color is similar to the previous one (metal sky blue). The side sacks are enriched by two aluminum decorations, and the rear light is larger and completely chrome-plated.
This model enjoyed great success, thanks to its elegance and functional qualities ever since its first appearance at the Olympic Games in 1960.
Engine: Two-stroke single cylinder engine
Bore: 57 mm
Stroke: 57 mm
Displacement: 145.45 cc
Top speed: 87 km/h
Suspension: coil spring and hydraulic shock absorber on both wheels
Brakes: drums
Tires: 3.50-8
Vespa 150 Sidecar
1955
1955
The Vespa sidecar was advertised in March 1948, following the success of the new 125 cc engine. The Vespa 150 VL 1 was the first to be built in this displacement, and the first were sold at the end of 1954. Studied in minute detail, the Vespa with the sidecar had suspension and had coil springs for stability and comfort on long rides.
The sidecar, whose elegant, aerodynamic design was much admired, allowed the passenger to ride with the driver in comfort. The sheet metal sidecar was assembled by hand and link to the Vespa by a single tube, and it became a Piaggio exclusive that also envisaged the substation of the gear change ratio to facilitate riding on sharp gradients.
Engine: Two-stroke single cylinder engine
Bore: 57 mm
Stroke: 57 mm
Displacement: 145.45 cc
Top speed: 75 km/h
Suspension: with helicoidal spring and hydraulic shock absorber on two wheels, with two helicoidal springs on the sidecar
Brakes: drum on both wheels
Tires: 3.50-8
Spain
1955
1955
Vespa the progress of technology brochure designed by Zambelli.
Italy - Vespa brochure
1955
1955
Vespa the progress of technology brochure designed by Zambelli.
Italy - the sun advertising
1955
1955
Vespa filies towards the sun advertising campaign, Raymond Savignac.
France - brochure
1955
1955
Vespa brochure.
Australia
1955
1955
Vespa brochure.
Italy - The Borgeois
1955
1955
Illustrations from Il Borghese (The Borgeois) designed by Leo Longanesi.
Italy - The Borgeois I
1955
1955
Illustrations from Il Borghese (The Borgeois) designed by Leo Longanesi.
Italy - Piaggio greeting card
1955
1955
1955 Piagio greeting card, Virgilio Milana, Graphistudio (Rome).
Italy - Piaggio greeting card I
1955
1955
1956 Piaggio greeting card, Virgilio Milana, Graphistudio (Rome).
Vespa 150
1956
1956
In 1956, a decade after the first model was launched, the millionth Vespa came off the line of the Pontedera factory. The Vespa success exceeded all expectations and the by-now-legendary scooter was available in three different displacements – 125, 150, and 150 GS. The Vespa 150 was more comfortable and had better performance than the 125 model, which it otherwise resembled except for its headlamp, mounted above the handlebar. The launch price was 148,000 liras to the 125s 128,000 liras. The first sporty GS- far more fast and powerful – sold at 178,000 liras.
Engine: two-stroke single cylinder engine
Bore: 57 mm
Stroke: 57 mm
Displacement: 145 cc
Suspension: conical coil spring and hydraulic shock absorber. The rear shock absorber had a dual-effect hydraulic shock absorber
Brakes: drums
Tires: 3.50-8
Vespa 150 T.A.P.
1956
1956
In the 1950s the French defense ministry commissioned ACMA, Piaggio’s French licensee, to produce a vehicle for military use. The result was the very special Vespa 150 T.A.P (Truppe Aereo Portate – air troops carrier), of which about 6,000 units were produced from 1956 to 1959 at ACMA’s factory.
Used by the Foreign Legion and French paratroopers, the Vespa TAP could be parachuted, and had a 75mm cannon (without recoil), six rounds of ammunition and two fuel jerrycans, and a small trolley. It was produced in two camouflage colors, green and sable.
Engine: two-stroke single cylinder engine
Bore: 58.5 mm
Stroke: 54 mm
Displacement: 145 cc
Top speed: 66 km/h
Suspension: helicoidal spring and hydraulic shock absorber on both wheels
Brakes: drums
Tires: 3.50-8
Italy - Vespas poster
1956
1956
1,000,000 Vespas poster.
Vespa 400
1957
1957
At the peak of the success of the Vespa, Piaggio decides to make an entrance into the world of the four-wheeler, still in the optic of producing an economic vehicle for a wide market.
Once again Corradino D’Ascanio set out designing the little Vespa 400, a two-stroke car built in two versions.
After its debut in 1957, 30,000 models were produced by ACMA, Piaggio’s French licensee, and in 1959, it even ran in the Monte Carlo rally.
Engine: a rear-mounted, air cooled, two-cylinder, two-stroke engine driving the rear wheels
Bore: 63 mm
Stroke: 63 mm
Displacement: 395 cc
Top speed: 56 mph
Suspension: independent four wheels
Brakes: hydraulic on all four wheels
Tires: 4.00-10
Vespa 125 - 1958
1958
1958
Produced in two different colors, grey and beige, the 1958 Vespa 125 marked an epoch. It was the first Vespa on which two steel half-shells were joined to make the body. This type of frame had major advantages in terms of industrial production and would be used on all Vespa models thereafter.
Another new feature of the 1958 Vespa 125 was represented by the commands hidden within the handlebar, which was also composed of two half-shells of pressed steel; a certainly more stylish feature that had been used until then only on the 150 cc models whose handlebars were, however, die-cast. The engine too had a new design – it was smaller, with the transverse strut incorporated into the crankcase. This was the last Vespa to use the 5% mixture.
Engine: Two-stroke single cylinder engine
Bore: 54 mm
Stroke: 54 mm
Displacement: 124 cc
Top speed: 75 km/h
Suspension: helicoidal spring and hydraulic shock absorber on both wheels
Brakes: drums
Tires: 3.50-8
Vespa 150 GS - 1959
1959
1959
This was the last Vespa in the legendary GS series, first produced in 1955 with the successive engine and styling improvements made to the VS versions and numbered 2 to 5. The VS5 front shield had a stainless steel rim and a die-cast handlebar that concealed the control cables, exactly as on the VS2. It had a characteristic fan-shaped speedometer and the rear lamp had a stop light, which had become compulsory, with chrome trim. The front mudguard crest also had a new design. There were significant improvements to the braking system and the engine in general. It had a new carburetor and cylinder head with a hike in horsepower to make running smoother and more flexible. This model was manufactured from 1959 to 1962.
Engine: Two-stroke single cylinder engine
Bore: 57 mm
Stroke: 57 mm
Displacement: 144.5 cc
Top speed: 94 km/h
Suspension: coil springs and hydraulic shock absorbers
Brakes: drums
Tires: 3.50-10
Netherlands
1959
1959
Voor uw transport voor uw genoegenVespa (For your transportation and for your pleasureVespa) brochure.
Vespa 150 - 1960
1960
1960
This is the evolution of the Vespa 150 (VBA), presented in 1958, with very few changes. The color is similar to the previous one (metal sky blue). The side sacks are enriched by two aluminum decorations, and the rear light is larger and completely chrome-plated.
This model enjoyed great success, thanks to its elegance and functional qualities ever since its first appearance at the Olympic Games in 1960.
Engine: Two-stroke single cylinder engine
Bore: 57 mm
Stroke: 57 mm
Displacement: 145.45 cc
Top speed: 87 km/h
Suspension: coil spring and hydraulic shock absorber on both wheels
Brakes: drums
Tires: 3.50-8
Brazil
1960
1960
Ecomiza Tempo (Save Time) press campaign.
Kenya
1960
1960
Go by Vespa press campaign.
Portugal
1960
1960
Vespa press campaign.
United Kingdom - Betta Getta
1960
1960
Betta Getta Vespa advertising campaign.
United Kingdom - Indpendence press campaign
1961
1961
Indpendence press campaign.
Italy - Sandro Scarsi
1961
1961
Vespa advertising campaign, Sandro Scarsi.
Italy - the best selling scooter
1961
1961
The best selling scooter in the world advertising campaign, original sketch.
Vespa 160 GS
1962
1962
The Vespa 160 GS, the production of which goes from 1962 to 1964, bring an end to the prestigious series born in 1955, and whose means satisfied the requests of more qualified and demanding customers. Compared with the previous Gran Sport model, the engine has a larger displacement which improves performance; side bags are removable and edged with anticorodal lead aluminum trimmings. New is also the grey white lead color replacing the traditional metal grey. Front suspensions have spring and co-axial shock absorber for a better driving comfort. The compartment on the rear leaves space for the spare wheel, under the left bag. The Vespa 160 GS stars in the famous “Paradise for Two” ad.
Engine: Two-stroke single cylinder engine
Bore: 58 mm
Stroke: 60 mm
Displacement: 158.53 cc
Top speed: 100 km/h
Suspension: helicoidal spring and hydraulic shock absorber on both wheels
Brakes: drums
Tires: 3.50-10
Vespa GL
1962
1962
The Vespa GL (a luxury version of the 150) is considered in 1962 to be the most elegant model ever designed by Piaggio. The body’s new styling gives this vehicle a modern aspect which meets the public’s demands for aesthetics as well as functionality.
Its revolutionary aspect is in the bags – they are more squared than the normal 150 bags, have two aluminum moldings, and also have a trapezoidal light. The alumninum moldings are on the front mudguard as well, its larger dimension allows the use of a bigger wheel (from 8 to 10).
Engine: Two-stroke single cylinder engine
Bore: 57 mm
Stroke: 57 mm
Displacement: 145.45 cc
Top speed: 90.4 km/h
Suspension: variable flexibility coil spring and double-effect hydraulic shock absorber on both wheels
Brakes: drums
Tires: 3.50-10
Vespa 'Dali'
1962
1962
Quarta decima et
Italy - Their happiness only lacks a Vespa
1962
1962
Their happiness only lacks a Vespa advertising campaign.
United Kingdom - If only we had a Vespa
1962
1962
If only we had a Vespa advertising campaign.
United Kingdom - A paradise for two
1962
1962
A paradise for two advertising campaign.
Italy - A paradise for two
1962
1962
Vespa GS A paradise for two advertising campaign.
Vespa 90
1963
1963
The Vespa 90 was launched in 1963 together with the 50 and they used many of the same components. They were also retailed in a single color: sky blue. About 24,000 units were sold in Italy, and each was equipped with a license plate due to its engine displacement. The Vespa 90 was popular with those that needed to carry a passenger.
Engine: Two-stroke single cylinder engine
Bore: 47 mm
Stroke: 51 mm
Displacement: 88.5 cc
Top speed: 70 km/h
Suspension: helicoidal spring and hydraulic shock absorber on both wheels
Brakes: drums
Tires: 3.00-10
Vespa 50
1963
1963
This was the most popular Vespa with the young. It was brilliant and easy to handle, with attractive, exclusive styling that derives from the line of larger Vespa models. Ever since its first appearance on the market in 1963, it is advertised by Piaggio as young, modern, and without licensing documents needed. With the 1963 Rules of the Road, no numberplate nor licenseplate are required even for fourteen years old. The engine is completely new, with the cylinder positioned at a 45 degree angle and no longer horizontal. This was the last scooter to be designed by Corradino D’Ascanio, and it is a milestone in the history of Vespa: from 1964 to the present day, over 3 million have been built.
Engine: Two-stroke single cylinder engine
Bore: 38 mm
Stroke: 43 mm
Displacement: 49 cc
Top speed: 70 km/h
Suspension: rubber elements at the front, coil spring and hydraulic shock absorber at the rear
Brakes: drums
Tires: 2.75-9
Vespa Miliatry Prototype
1964
1964
Like other motorcycle producers, in the 1960s Piaggio spent part of its research on the military use of their vehicle.
The first projects presented in 1964 to the Ministry of Defense in Italy date back to the beginning of the 50s, of which there is written evidence such as drawings (like the image that compares the Vespa 125 with a motorcycle). The 1964 model derives from the Vespa 125 (VMA1) with a few changes on the frame to reduce encumbrance. In fact, the handlebar and the front wheel can be quickly removed and placed on the left-side sack. After negotiations with the Italian Ministry of Defense, the Vespa Military has remained as a prototype.
Engine: Two-stroke single cylinder engine
Bore: 57 mm
Stroke:51mm
Displacement: 121.17 cc
Top speed: 80 km/h
Suspension: coil spring and hydraulic shock absorber on both wheels
Brakes: drums
Tires: 3.00-10
Italy -1964
1964
1964
Its not a problem with the advertising campaign. Parking, Virgilio Milana, Graphistudio (Rome).
USA
1964
1964
Maybe your second car shouldnt be a car press campaign.
Vespa 90 Super Sprint
1965
1965
The Super Sprint is no doubt the most stylish Vespa with its unmistakable aggressive design, its speed, its irresistible spurt and its stirring riding. Production started in 1965. It features a smaller legshield and an oddments pannier placed between the saddle and the handlebar. Like the Vespa GS of 1955, the spare wheel can be positioned in the middle of the floor platform. Exploiting the success of the Vespa Super Sprint, like the Vespa 50, it is among one of the most sought-after models. A real collector’s item.
Engine: Two-stroke single cylinder engine
Bore: 47 mm
Stroke: 51mm
Displacement: 88.5 cc
Top speed: 93 km/h
Suspension: coil spring and hydraulic shock absorber on both wheels
Brakes: drums
Tires: 3.00-10
Thailand
1965
1965
Vespa poster.
Vespa Alpha (Vespa 180ss)
1967
1967
This vehicle appeared in the film “Dick Smart, Agent 2007” (1967) starring Richard Wyler, Margaret Lee, and Rosanna Tapados.
For this movie, the Vespa 180 Super Sport was transformed by Piaggio and by the English factory Alpha Willis to race along the road, fly like a helicopter, sail and dive like a submarine.
Engine: Two-stroke single cylinder engine
Bore: 62 mm
Stroke: 60 mm
Displacement: 181.145 cc
Top speed: 105 km/h
Suspension: coil spring and hydraulic shock absorber on both wheels
Brakes: drums
Tires: 3.50-10
Vespa 125 Primavera
1967
1967
Derived from the Vespa 125 VMA1, the Vespa 125 Primavera (Spring) met with immediate success in 1967. Easy to handle, trim, quick and powerful are some of the attributes that describe the Vespa Primavera of the 1960s. The young are the main characters of the spot Con Vespa si puo (With Vespa it’s possible) that addresses teens above 16 who love sport and nature, and do not like to get stuck in the traffic and be late for dates with friends.
The main feature is a longer frame, which permits an easier transportation of the passenger.
Engine: Two-stroke single cylinder engine
Bore: 55 mm
Stroke: 51 mm
Displacement: 121.17 cc
Top speed: 85 km/h
Suspension: elastic with coil spring and hydraulic shock absorber on both wheels
Brakes: drums
Tires: 3.00-10
Italy - With Vespa you can
1967
1967
Con Vespa si puo (With Vespa you can) advertising campaign copy Pico Tamburino, art Gilberto Filippetti, photography by Tam Fagiuoli, Leader.
Vespa 180 Rally
1968
1968
After the success of the Vespa Super Sport 180, Piaggio puts the new 180cc vehicle on the market in 1968 with completely new mechanics and frame, which derive from the Vespa Sprint of 1966. There are some aesthetical changes to the handlebar, storage box, and saddle. The Vespa Rally 180 is still one of the most functional and the best looking vehicles. Its production began in 1968 and ended in 1973, with a total of 26,000 vehicles built.
Engine: Two-stroke engine
Bore: 63.5 mm
Stroke: 57 mm
Displacement: 180 cc
Top speed: over 100 km/h
Suspension: helicoidal springs and hydraulic shock absorbers on both wheels
Brakes: drum
Tires: 3.50-10
USA - Be different, go Vespa
1968
1968
Be different, go Vespa press campaign.
Vespa 50 Special
1969
1969
Sold in the years of maximum protest against society, the Vespa 50 Special was proposed to the new generation with stylish changes to the handlebar as well as to the front and rear lights, suggesting color contrasts which give it a pleasantly modern aspect (as a brochure from those years suggests).
The same year sees the launch of the Vespa 50 Elestart too, featuring the same design as the 50 Special, but with an innovative technical solution: the electric start. From 1969 to 1973 one of the most famous Piaggio advertising campaigns with the play off the “Chi Vespa mangia le mele” accompanies the Vespa 50 Special’s success.
Engine: Two-stroke engine
Bore: 38.4 mm
Stroke: 43 mm
Displacement: 50 cc
Top speed: 40 km/h
Suspension: helicoidal springs and hydraulic shock absorbers on both wheels
Brakes: drum
Tires: 2.75-9
Vespa 50 with Pedals
1970
1970
In 1970 in order to be sold on the French market, the Vespa 50 underwent a particular transformation: pedals. Although little appreciated from an aesthetical point of view, this solution was necessary to adapt to the French homologation provisions.
Today, the Vespa 50 with pedals is wanted by many lovers of the most famous scooter in the world.
Engine: Two-stroke engine
Bore: 38.4 mm
Stroke: 43 mm
Displacement: 50 cc
Top speed: 40 km/h
Suspension: helicoidal springs and hydraulic shock absorbers on both wheels
Brakes: drum
Tires: 2.75-9
Italy - Vespa riders eat apples
1970
1970
Chi Vespa mangia le mele (Vespa riders eat apples) advertising campaign, Gilberto Filippetti, Leader (Florence).
Italy - Vespa riders eat apples 2
1970
1970
Chi Vespa mangia le mele (Vespa riders eat apples) advertising campaign, Gilberto Filippetti, Leader (Florence).
Italy - Vespa riders eat apples 3
1970
1970
Chi Vespa mangia le mele (Vespa riders eat apples) advertising campaign, Gilberto Filippetti, Leader (Florence).
Italy - Vespa Poster
1970
1970
Vespa Poster, photography by Tam Fagiuoli.
Italy - Going buy myself a Vespa
1971
1971
Mela compro la Vespa (Going buy myself a Vespa) advertising campaign, Gilberto Filippetti, photography by Tam Fagiuoli, Leader (Florence).
Vespa Rally 200
1972
1972
After the Vespa 180s great success, Piaggio presents for the first time in 1972 the Vespa 200cc. It has immediate success, and the Vespa fans are even ready to wait for months to have it. From an aesthetical point of view, the Vespa Rally 200 is immediately recognizable due to its adhesive stripes on the side s and on the mudguard.
In the same year, the advertising campign Le Sardomobili appears with the following: two powerful and brisk wheels, with quick reflexes, two rally wheels pushed by the new 12 hp engine which reaches 5,700 rpm, two mighty wheels that zoom safely to 100 km/h.
On the side, the writing states that the powerful engine is started electronically, a technological solution adopted by Piaggio.
Engine: Two-stroke engine
Bore: 66.5 mm
Stroke: 57 mm
Displacement: 198 cc
Top speed: 110 km/h
Suspension: helicoidal springs and hydraulic shock absorbers on both wheels
Brakes: drum
Tires: 3.50-10
Italy -1972
1972
1972
Le sardomobili si sfidano sempre. Pace chi Vespa (Commuters sardines, always fighting. Peace to Vespa riders) advertising campaign, Gilberto.
Italy - brochure
1972
1972
Vespa 150 Sprint Veloce brochure.
Italy -1975 brochure
1975
1975
Vespa Brochure.
Vespa 'Primavera ET3'
1976
1976
The Vespa Primavera ET3 is a specific, limited-edition variant (144,000 units were produced overall) of the Vespa Primavera. The initials ET3 indicate that the vehicle had electronic ignition and that the engines single cylinder had a third transfer port. The smaller-sized body, like that of the Vespa 50cc, gave the vehicle more maneuverability, a feature that made this Vespa a favorite of the 1970s youngers. The seat the color of blue jeans of the first few units produced reveals the link between the young and the Primavera ET3. The 125cc ET3 engine resembled the Primavera from the outside but was much faster and more powerful, so that for a long time it was the fastest Vespa in its category.
Engine: Two-stroke engine
Bore: 55 mm
Stroke: 51 mm
Displacement: 198 cc
Top speed: 90 km/h
Suspension: helicoidal springs and hydraulic shock absorbers on both wheels
Brakes: drum
Tires: 3.00-10
Vespa 125 ET3
1976
1976
Produced for the foreign markets in the 1980s, the Vespa 125 ET3 has the same characteristics as the Italian ET3 (1976), except for some details such as the saddle, the cooling fan cover and the color range. It was particularly appreciated in Japan, where it was sold until the mid-1990s.
Engine: Two-stroke engine
Bore: 55 mm
Stroke: 51 mm
Displacement: 198 cc
Top speed: 90 km/h
Suspension: helicoidal springs and hydraulic shock absorbers on both wheels
Brakes: drum
Tires: 3.00-10
Vespa P125X
1977
1977
The Vespa P125X was presented in 1977 at the Milan Motorcycle Exhibition as the Vespa Nuova Linea (New Line). Like the PE200, the P125X is the result of particularly successful and innovative restyling, which takes it into the 1980s and makes a break with earlier models. The Vespa P125X immediately becomes the object of desire of the young, capable of competing with strongly demanded 125 motorcycles. The storage is larger, and the foam polyurethane saddle is more comfortable. The handlebar displays a totally re-styled speedometer easily visible by night too. The front suspension is very innovative and efficient, and is characterized by a telescopic shock absorber fixed to the brake shoe holder and to the oscillating lever near the wheel pivot.
Engine: Two-stroke engine
Bore: 52.5 mm
Stroke: 57 mm
Displacement: 123.4 cc
Top speed: 85.7 km/h
Suspension: variable flexibility coil spring and double-effect hydraulic shock absorber on both wheels
Brakes: drum
Tires: 3.50-10
Vespa Gigante
1977
1977
This Vespa PX model was built for the 1977 show to launch the Vespa in Paris. Brought back and jealously guarded by the Piaggio Warehouse team, the Vespone was painted by artist Stefano Tonelli during the Museums Gesto exhibition in 2001. This special model had been painted red in occasion of the exhibition La Motocicletta Italiana (The Italian Motorcycle) held at the Mazzotta Foundation in Milan.
Vespa 100 Sport (USA)
1978
1978
Derived from the Vespa 90 and launched at the end of the 70s in the United States, the 100 Sport model differentiates from the 90 in details that were needed for the American market regulations. In particular, a larger rear light, blinkers, and a special fuel tank valve. The larger engine displacement, from 90 to 100cc, was obtained by increasing the cylinder bore.
Engine: Two-stroke engine
Bore: 49 mm
Stroke: 51 mm
Displacement: 96.12 cc
Top speed: 80 km/h
Suspension: coil spring and hydraulic shock absorber on both wheels
Brakes: drum
Tires: 3.00-10
Italy - Vespa the cult scooter
1981
1981
Vespa il mito scooter (Vespa the cult scooter) advertising campaign, Gilberto Filippetti, Leader (Florence).
Italy - Vespa 125 ET3 brochure
1981
1981
Vespa 125 Primavera, Vespa 125 ET3 brochure.
Vespa PK
1982
1982
At the end of 1982, the year in which the Italian National soccer team wins the World Cup, the new Vespa PK is presented with two different displacements: 50 and 125. The versions are: Basic, Luxury (optional extras of a case and blinkers), Elestart (with electric start) and Automatic, the new 125 model strategically replaces the Vespa ET3 Primavera, but maintains the same technical characteristics (such as the electronic start) with a completely different design. The inclined straight lines and chassis squared shape are obtained thanks to a new soldering system of the body, which makes the points no longer visible. The four-sided rear part has doors for a better access to the engine (on the right side) and the spare wheel (on the left side). The PK 125 S version is the first Vespa model to have automatic speed gear, an important result for Piaggios continuous research to facilitate technological progress.
Engine: Two-stroke single cylinder engine
Bore: 55 mm
Stroke: 51 mm
Displacement: 121 cc
Top speed: 84.5 km/h
Suspension: variable flexibility coil spring and double effect hydraulic
Brakes: drums
Tires: 2.10-10
Italy - Italys Vespaed
1982
1982
LItalia se Vespa (Italys Vespaed) advertising campaign, Gilberto Filippetti, Leader (Florence).
Italy - Today I'm the sea
1983
1983
Oggi son oil mare (Today I'm the sea) advertising campaign, Gilberto Filippetti, photography by Tam Fagiuoli, Leader (Florence).
Vespa 50S
1985
1985
In 1985 Piaggio plans a faster 50cc model as needed to satisfy some countries’ demands. The engine delivers larger power, even though the bore and stroke remain of the same size. By this time, a license plate was required in Italy on the Vespa 50 S.
Engine: Two-stroke single cylinder engine
Bore: 38.4 mm
Stroke: 51 mm
Displacement: 49.77 cc
Top speed: 60 km/h
Suspension: coil spring and hydraulic shock absorber on both wheels
Brakes: drums
Tires: 3.00-10
Vespa 125 T5 Pole Position
1985
1985
New name and the style characterize the Vespa 125 T5 Pole Position launched in 1985. Aggressive lines, the spoiler, the windscreen, and the digital rev counter underline its sporting look. Piaggio gives this model the difficult task to compete with Japanese production, which has significantly increased by now. The T5 has a new five-transfer engine capable of ensuring high performances, like no other Vespa with a similar displacement ever reached. Its connect to the world of speed races is sealed by choosing Formula One pilot Nelson Piquet as exceptional representative.
Engine: Two-stroke single cylinder engine
Bore: 55 mm
Stroke: 52 mm
Displacement: 123.5 cc
Top speed: 100 km/h
Suspension: helicoidal springs and hydraulic shock absorber on both wheels
Brakes: drums
Tires: 3.50-10
Vespa 50 Special Revival
1991
1991
Proposed at the beginning of the 90s to satisfy both yesterday and today’s enthusiasts, the 50 Special was the most beloved Vespa with the young of the 1960s.
Appreciated all over the world, the 50 Special is back again in 1991 in a limited edition (only 3,000 produced) to become acquainted with those who in the 60s were not yet born or were absent-minded. The 50 Special presents itself as a mythical product of our time and finds a prestigious place at the Museum of Modern Art in New York.
The Vespa 50 Special Revival has a very special history and was kindly donated to the Piaggio Museum by Christa Solbach in November 2004.
Engine: Two-stroke single cylinder engine
Bore: 38.4 mm
Stroke: 43 mm
Displacement: 49.77 cc
4-speed gear box
Suspension: coil springs and hydraulic shock absorber on both wheels
Brakes: drums
Tires: 3.00-10
Vespa ET2-ET4
1996
1996
This is the 50th Anniversary Vespa, solemnly presented in September 1996 in Rome. The Vespa approaches without losing its traditional elegant, appealing, immediately recognizable, and reassuring styling. At the same time, it has become technologically innovative, reaching new milestones in terms of comfort and confirming its greatest point, the ability to reflect the fashions and requirements of the moment better than any other two-wheeler. This is the secret that has made the Vespa the most famous, best loved, best-selling vehicle of all time, a real time-machine on two wheels. The new generation of Vespa is available in three different versions: the Vespa ET4, equipped with an ecological 4-stroke 125 cc engine; the Vespa ET2 injection, powered by the FAST engine (Fully Atomized Stratified Turbulence).
Engine: 2/4-stroke single cylinder engine
Bore: 40/57 mm
Stroke: 39/48.6 mm
Displacement: 494/124.2 cc
Suspension: coil springs and hydraulic shock absorber on both wheels
Brakes: 200 mm diameter stainless steel disc with hydraulic control at the front, 110 mm diameter one cam drum at the rear
Tires: tubeless 100/80x10
Vespa ET
1996
1996
This is the 50th Anniversary Vespa, presented in September 1996 in Rome.
The Vespa approaches the millennium without losing its traditional elegant, appealing, immediately recognizable, and reassuring styling. At the same time, it has become technologically innovative, reaching new milestone in terms of comfort and confirming its greates strong point, the ability to reflect the fashions and requirements of the moment better than any other two-wheeler. In the year 2001 Piaggio calls the Vesparte contest in which fourteen Vespa ET4 compete with the stylists personal interpretations varying from Art to Design. Pezzo Unico is the winner and the second place winner is Vespa Mucca Pazza.
Engine: 2/4-stroke single cylinder engine
Bore: 40/57 mm
Stroke: 39/48.6 mm
Displacement: 494/124.2 cc
Suspension: coil springs and hydraulic shock absorber on both wheels
Brakes: 200 mm diameter stainless steel disc with hydraulic control at the front, 110 mm diameter one cam drum at the rear
Tires: tubeless 100/80x1
Italy - 1998 Vespa Calendar
1998
1998
1998 Vespa Calendar, photography by G.M. Fadda, AReA (Rome).
Italy - Everybodys Free
2000
2000
Everybodys Free advertising campaign, Penguins, photography by Zalai (marco Biondi) Roncaglia & Wijlander (Rome).
Vespa ET4 Ferrari
2001
2001
Piaggio’s homage to the Ferrari racing stable on the occasion of their victory in the Formula One World Championship in 2000. These vehicles, personalized with the names Montezemolo, Todt, Schumacher and Barrichello, are painted on the Ferrari red; the leather saddle is made of the same material used to upholster Ferrari cars.
Engine: 4-stroke single cylinder engine with Piaggio L.E.A.D.E.R
Bore: 57 mm
Stroke: 48.6 mm
Displacement:151 cc
Suspension: single arm with hydraulic shock absorber and coil spring at the front, mono hydraulic shock absorber with pre-charge adjustable in four positions at the rear
Brakes: disc at the front, drum at the rear
Tires: front 100/80x10, rear 120/70x10
Italy - 2002
2002
2002
Vespa ET4 125/150
Italy - 2002 Calendar
2002
2002
Vespa 2002 Calendar
Vespa PX 'Trafeli'
2003
2003
The Vespa PX became a real work of art, molded and shaped by Mino Trafelis. Precious anthological exhibition of Trafeli’s work is hosted in the halls of the Piaggio Museum in 2003. Mitologica Vespa (Mythological Vespa) was donated to the museum’s collection by its author, and was defined as follows:
A parallel game that distorts the object in order to create a new shape, using unsuitable materials thus giving birth to new considerations on the object itself. Reconsidering, beside the visual inertia that leads to the shape’s inurnment, the scooter aesthetical valence, and re-discovering the meaning of its unique style which has maintained its original characteristic form, despite the changes of time.
Italy - Vespa GTS Beep Beep
2005
2005
Vespa GTS Beep Beep, agency TBWA/Italia, art director: Christana Baccelli, copywriter: Gina Ridenti, photographer: Roberto Carrer.
Italy - Vespa LX Contorsionista
2005
2005
Vespa LX Contorsionista, agency TBWA/Italia, art director: Christana Baccelli, copywriter: Gina Ridenti, photographer: Paolo Zambaldi.
Italy - 2006
2006
2006
Vespa LX 2006
Italy - Vespa 60 anniversary
2006
2006
Vespa 60 anniversary
USA - Vintage themed Vespa prmotion
2008
2008
Vintage themed Vespa prmotion.
MP5 Paperino
1943
1943
Towards the end of the Second World War, Enrico Piaggio was driven to start up production again by the idea of offering the widest possible market low-cost product. And, with this in mind, the factory at Biella produced a motor-scooter (1943-1944).
This prototype, designed by the engineer Renzo Spolti and coded MP5 (Moto Piaggio 5), was christened "Paperino", which means "Donald Duck", by the workers.
But Enrico Piaggio didn’t like it, and passed the job over to Corradino D’Ascanio to review the project and build something different, more advanced both technically and stylistically.
However, before evolving into the Vespa, about one hundred Paperinos were produced, which are today highly prized by collectors.
Engine: Two-stroke single cylinder
Bore: 50 mm
Stroke: 50 mm
Displacement: 98 cc
Gearbox: Continuous speed-variator
Transmission: chain or cardan
Top speed: 60 km/h
Suspension: 2 tubular holders with springs
Brakes: drum
Tires: 4.00-10
Vespa MP6 Prototype
1945
1945
At the end of the Second World War, Enrico Piaggio gave Corradino D’Ascanio the job of designing a simple vehicle that was tough, economic, and elegant. It had to be easily rideable by anybody without dirtying their clothes, and have a seat for a passenger.
D’Ascanio, who was not a great lover of motorbikes as such, drew up a completely original vehicle. Digging into his aeronautics background he came up with the idea of a vehicle mounted on a chassis with the gear change on the handlebars. He also put the drive on the rear wheel so creating a highly original wheel-mounted engine grouping. The front suspension arm, looking a bit like aircraft landing gear, made changing the wheel much easier.
This prototype, the MP6, was still without a name when in September 1945 it was presented to Enrico Piaggio, who exclaimed, “It looks like a wasp!”
Engine: Two-stroke single cylinder engine, with the cylinder in iron and the cylinder head in light alloy.
Bore: 50 mm
Stroke: 50 mm
Displacement: 98 cc
Top speed: 38 mph
Suspension: elastic with a steel spring on the front wheel and rubber pads near the rear wheel and engine
Brakes: drums
Tires: 3.50-8
Vespa 98
1946
1946
The “motoleggera utilitarian” Vespa, or light motorized runabout, was presented to the public for the first time in April 1946 at the Rome golf club. The leg shield sported the new Piaggio logo, which replaced the former aeronautical emblem. The fortnightly magazines la Moto and Motociclismo dedicated their covers to the Vespa and the new scooter sparked off curiosity and surprise, but also a certain skepticism among the public. The first fifty vehicles were produced at the Pontedera factory at the same time of the official presentation. For the first few months the Vespa was marketed by the Lancia dealer network, and a total of 2,484 were produced in that first year. And so the adventure of the world’s most famous scooter began.
Engine: Two-stroke single cylinder engine. Horizontal cast iron with press-fit cylinder in iron and light alloy head.
Bore: 50 mm
Stroke: 50 mm
Displacement: 98 cc
Top speed: 60 km/h
Suspension: elastic with spiral steel springs on the front wheel and rubber buffers for the rear wheel
Brakes: drums
Tires: 3.50-8
Vespa 98 Series 2
1947
1947
The second series of the Vespa 98 (1947), of which 16,500 units were produced, included significant improvements over the preceding model, design-wise as well as in terms of technical and practical aspects. The front mudguard no longer had a hatch opening, and it had been reduced in size to make wheel changing easier in case of a puncture, a frequent occurrence in the post-war period because of bad roads. Magazines of the period noted that potential customers had to wait eight months for their Vespa 98. This led to the creation of a flourishing black market, with Vespas being sold at as much as double their normal retail price.
Engine: Two-stroke single cylinder engine. Horizontal cast iron with press-fit cylinder in iron and light alloy head.
Bore: 50 mm
Stroke: 50 mm
Displacement: 98 cc
Top speed: 60 km/h
Suspension: elastic with spiral steel springs on the front wheel and rubber buffers for the rear wheel
Brakes: drums
Tires: 3.50-8
Vespa 98cc Race
1947
1947
The first fabulous race Vespa was conceived for participation in various race circuits. With it, in 1947 Piaggio dealers could enter in speed contests. The Vespa in fact took part in several gradlent and track races, with many victories in the scooter category, among which the Naples Grand Prix in 1947 and the chronograph climb at Rocca di Papa (Rome).
The Vespa 98 Corsas form derived from the standard production model, but it had a much smaller, bubble-shaped shield and small handlebars. The horn was taken off the steering column cover and seat is placed far back, so that the rider had to stretch to reach the handlebars. The rear brakes were also retracted to suit the riders elongated, aerodynamic position.
Engine: Two-stroke single cylinder enginewith cast iron horizontal cylinder and aluminum head
Bore: 50 mm
Stroke: 50 mm
Displacement: 98 cc
Top speed: 80 km/h
Suspension: spiral springs on the front wheel, leaf springs on the rear wheel
Brakes: drums
Tires: 3.50-8
Vespa 98cc Race (Circuit)
1947
1947
The creative genius of Piaggio’s engineers, which had led to the appearance of the first Vespa on Italian roads in 1946, was confirmed a few months later by the emergence of a real jewel from the experimental division of the Pontedera workshops.
The Vespa 98 Corsa was built with the specific objective of showing the world that a small scooter could be extremely competitive on the circuit.
In 1946 Vespa 98 Corsa (Circuit) was hence built for speed in its category and represented a concentration of innovative ideas to be tried out on standard production. It mounted the steering column and suspension on the right, a solution that would be applied to the Vespa 125 from 1948 on. The body was handbuilt on a steel frame.
Engine: Two-stroke single cylinder engine with cast iron horizontal cylinder and aluminum head
Bore: 50 mm
Stroke: 50 mm
Displacement: 98 cc
Top speed: 100 km/h
Suspension: spiral springs and shock absorber on the front wheel, leaf springs on the rear wheel
Brakes: drums
Tires: Pirelli of the corsa type, 3.50-8
Vespa 125
1948
1948
In 1948, Piaggio launched its new Vespa. From 1946 to 1947, 1,183 Vespas had been produced with 125 cc engine rise and the frame of the 98 model, which had been sold abroad. At the end of 1947, Enrico Piaggio decided to completely stop production of the Vespa 98 a new 125 cc model in Italy too. With respect to the original model of 1946, the engine size had been increased to 125 cc, and shock-absorber mounted on the rear wheel offered a more comfortable ride. The front wheel suspension had been modified too, with the arm being mounted to the right of the wheel, where it would remain for years to come. The 1949 version is slightly modified with improvement in its cooling system and gear control.
Engine: Two-stroke single cylinder engine with cast iron cylinder and the cylinder head in light alloy
Bore: 50 mm
Stroke: 50 mm
Displacement: 125 cc
Top speed: 70 km/h
Suspension: helicoidal spring on the front wheel, elastic with helicoidal spring hydraulic shock-absorber on the rear wheel
Brakes: drums
Tires: 3.50-8
Vespa 125 Corsa 'telaio in lega'
1949
1949
In 1949 the Vespa 125 Corsa was manufactured, the frame was of aluminum alloy used in aircraft construction and assembled using alloy rivets, an avant-garde technological feature for the time. The larger fuel tank stretched towards the steering column, and was intended to offer increased range and optimize riding at high speed. The Vespa 125 Corsa took part in several city races, notching up man prestigious victories: in1950 Giuseppe Cau and Dino Mazzoncini gain the first and second place at the Bolgona Grand Prix; in the same year Cau wins on the Perugia with the Vespa 98 Corsa n.38.
Engine: Two-stroke single cylinder
Bore: 53 mm
Stroke: 56 mm
Displacement: 125 cc
Top speed: 130 km/h
Suspension: helicoidal spring and calipers shock-absorber on the front wheel, rubber pad and leaf spring shock-absorber on the rear wheel
Brakes: drums
Tires: corsa type, 3.00-10
Vespa 125 Circuit
1949
1949
Towards the end of the 1940s most motorcycle constructors considered that the best way to publicize their products was to participate in the various motorcycles races that were generally held on town roads. The scope was to bring people closer to motorcycling and create potential customers. Piaggio did not want to be left behind and equipped a series of circuit scooters, like this 1949 example, to race in the categories reserved for them, making its mark right from the start and leaving behind all the other scooters. The Vespa 125 Circuit and previous circuit models were totally hand built by the specialists of the company’s experimental division and were used in races until the end of the 1950s by the official riders Dino Mazzoncini and Giuseppe Cau, who in 1950 wins the chronometer race Catani-Etna, gaining the first place in his category (125cc).
Engine: Two-stroke
Bore: 56.5 mm
Stroke: 50 mm
Displacement: 125 cc
Top speed: 100 km/h
Suspension: front with coil spring, rear with rubber stopper
Brakes: drums
Tires: 3.50-8
Vespa Monthery
1950
1950
In order to promote the sporting image of the Vespa, Piaggio turned its attention to record breaking in the hope of reviving a glorious post-war tradition. On April 7 1950, on France’s Monthery circuit, these riders took turns as the Vespa spent 10 consecutive hours acquiring 17 world records: over 1 hour (average speed 134 km/h); over 100 miles (average 129.7 km/h), 500 miles (average 123.9 km/h), 1,000 km (average 124.3 km/h), and over 10 hours during which the Vespa covered 1,049 km.
On a streamlined vehicle similar to this (the Vespa 125 Circuit alloy frame of 1949) rider Dino Mazzoncini also performed brilliantly in track races, most memorably in the head-to-head between Vespa and Lambretta that took place on the Genoa Circuit (Corsa Italia) and ended in a victory for Vespa in the motor class.
Engine: Two-stroke
Bore: 53 mm
Stroke: 56 mm
Displacement: 125 cc
Top speed: 136.92 km/h average
Suspension: front with coil spring, rear with rubber pad
Brakes: drums
Tires: 3.00-10 (for races)
Vespa 'Siluro'
1951
1951
In 1951, Vespa set off to challenge the most prestigious speed trial: that of the standing kilometer.
On the 9th of February, between the 10th and 11th kilometer on the Rome-Ostia motorway, a Vespa with two horizontally opposed pistons designed by Corradino D’Ascanio and driven by the test-driver Dino Mazzoncini, beat all standing kilometer records with a time of 21.4 seconds and an average speed of 171.1 km/h.
The engine’s two drive-shaft were connected by cogs and each cylinder was served by a separated carburetor, outflow controlled by the piston on the magneto side. Liquid cooled with radiator on the left side.
Engine: Two-stroke single cylinder with opposed pistons
Bore: 42 mm
Stroke: 45 mm
Displacement: 124.5 cc
Suspension: helicoidal spring at the front and shock-absorber with calipers; rear with rubber pad and shock-absorber with calipers
Brakes: drums
Tires: 3.00-10 (for races)
Vespa 125 - 1951
1951
1951
Very similar to the 1948 model, the 1951 Vespa was more comfortable, especially because of the addition of a hydraulic shock absorber to the front wheel. The major difference was the gear change, with soft control cables replacing the earlier push-rod linkage. From an aesthetical point of view, the rear lamp, round in the earlier models, was now rectangular; the saddle had a new color and design – it was closed in front to hide suspension movement. Very popular in those years, this was the model on which Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck made their romantic escapade in the unforgettable “Roman Holiday” movie.
Engine: Two-stroke single cylinder engine
Bore: 56.5 mm
Stroke: 49.8 mm
Displacement: 125 cc
Top speed: 70 km/h
Suspension: elastic with coil spring and hydraulic shock absorber on both wheels
Brakes: drums
Tires: 3.50-8
Vespa 125 Sei Giorni
1951
1951
This was a vehicle developed for trial racing, in which it enjoyed considerable success. Its styling was very similar to that of the standard models, except for a larger fuel tank, wraparound leg shield and a larger right side sack to house the carburetor on the cylinder. It earned its name by competing in the 26th International 6-Day Event of 1951, at which it won nine gold medals. The Piaggio racing team was composed of: Biasci, CAu, Granchi, Mazzoncini, Merlo, Nesti, Opessi, Riva, Romano and Vivaldi. In 1951 the Vespa 125 Sei Giorni also won the Motorcycle Italian Federation Trophy.
Engine: Two-stroke single cylinder engine
Bore: 54 mm
Stroke: 54 mm
Displacement: 124.2 cc
Top speed: 95 km/h
Suspension: elastic with coil spring on the front wheel, elastic with coil spring and hydraulic damper on the rear wheel
Brakes: cast-iron drums with large cooling fins
Tires: 3.50-8
Vesp 125 U
1953
1953
Only 7,000 of this Vespa U were produced, and so today it is amont those scooters most sought after by collectors. It was launched in 1953 as an economy model, the U standing for utility, and its price of the public of 110,000 lire was intended to offset competition by Lambretta.
For the first time, a Vespa aimed at the Italian market mounted the highlight on the handlebars rather than on the front mudguard.
Engine: Two-stroke single cylinder engine with deflector piston
Bore: 56.5 mm
Stroke: 49.8 mm
Displacement: 124.85 cc
Top speed: 40.38 km/h
Suspension: helicoidal spring on the front wheel, hydraulic shock-absorber with helicoidal springon the rear wheel
Brakes: drums
Tires: 3.50-8
Vespa 150 GS
1955
1955
This is the evolution of the Vespa 150 (VBA), presented in 1958, with very few changes. The color is similar to the previous one (metal sky blue). The side sacks are enriched by two aluminum decorations, and the rear light is larger and completely chrome-plated.
This model enjoyed great success, thanks to its elegance and functional qualities ever since its first appearance at the Olympic Games in 1960.
Engine: Two-stroke single cylinder engine
Bore: 57 mm
Stroke: 57 mm
Displacement: 145.45 cc
Top speed: 87 km/h
Suspension: coil spring and hydraulic shock absorber on both wheels
Brakes: drums
Tires: 3.50-8
Vespa 150 Sidecar
1955
1955
The Vespa sidecar was advertised in March 1948, following the success of the new 125 cc engine. The Vespa 150 VL 1 was the first to be built in this displacement, and the first were sold at the end of 1954. Studied in minute detail, the Vespa with the sidecar had suspension and had coil springs for stability and comfort on long rides.
The sidecar, whose elegant, aerodynamic design was much admired, allowed the passenger to ride with the driver in comfort. The sheet metal sidecar was assembled by hand and link to the Vespa by a single tube, and it became a Piaggio exclusive that also envisaged the substation of the gear change ratio to facilitate riding on sharp gradients.
Engine: Two-stroke single cylinder engine
Bore: 57 mm
Stroke: 57 mm
Displacement: 145.45 cc
Top speed: 75 km/h
Suspension: with helicoidal spring and hydraulic shock absorber on two wheels, with two helicoidal springs on the sidecar
Brakes: drum on both wheels
Tires: 3.50-8
Vespa 150
1956
1956
In 1956, a decade after the first model was launched, the millionth Vespa came off the line of the Pontedera factory. The Vespa success exceeded all expectations and the by-now-legendary scooter was available in three different displacements – 125, 150, and 150 GS. The Vespa 150 was more comfortable and had better performance than the 125 model, which it otherwise resembled except for its headlamp, mounted above the handlebar. The launch price was 148,000 liras to the 125s 128,000 liras. The first sporty GS- far more fast and powerful – sold at 178,000 liras.
Engine: two-stroke single cylinder engine
Bore: 57 mm
Stroke: 57 mm
Displacement: 145 cc
Suspension: conical coil spring and hydraulic shock absorber. The rear shock absorber had a dual-effect hydraulic shock absorber
Brakes: drums
Tires: 3.50-8
Vespa 150 T.A.P.
1956
1956
In the 1950s the French defense ministry commissioned ACMA, Piaggio’s French licensee, to produce a vehicle for military use. The result was the very special Vespa 150 T.A.P (Truppe Aereo Portate – air troops carrier), of which about 6,000 units were produced from 1956 to 1959 at ACMA’s factory.
Used by the Foreign Legion and French paratroopers, the Vespa TAP could be parachuted, and had a 75mm cannon (without recoil), six rounds of ammunition and two fuel jerrycans, and a small trolley. It was produced in two camouflage colors, green and sable.
Engine: two-stroke single cylinder engine
Bore: 58.5 mm
Stroke: 54 mm
Displacement: 145 cc
Top speed: 66 km/h
Suspension: helicoidal spring and hydraulic shock absorber on both wheels
Brakes: drums
Tires: 3.50-8
Vespa 400
1957
1957
At the peak of the success of the Vespa, Piaggio decides to make an entrance into the world of the four-wheeler, still in the optic of producing an economic vehicle for a wide market.
Once again Corradino D’Ascanio set out designing the little Vespa 400, a two-stroke car built in two versions.
After its debut in 1957, 30,000 models were produced by ACMA, Piaggio’s French licensee, and in 1959, it even ran in the Monte Carlo rally.
Engine: a rear-mounted, air cooled, two-cylinder, two-stroke engine driving the rear wheels
Bore: 63 mm
Stroke: 63 mm
Displacement: 395 cc
Top speed: 56 mph
Suspension: independent four wheels
Brakes: hydraulic on all four wheels
Tires: 4.00-10
Vespa 125 - 1958
1958
1958
Produced in two different colors, grey and beige, the 1958 Vespa 125 marked an epoch. It was the first Vespa on which two steel half-shells were joined to make the body. This type of frame had major advantages in terms of industrial production and would be used on all Vespa models thereafter.
Another new feature of the 1958 Vespa 125 was represented by the commands hidden within the handlebar, which was also composed of two half-shells of pressed steel; a certainly more stylish feature that had been used until then only on the 150 cc models whose handlebars were, however, die-cast. The engine too had a new design – it was smaller, with the transverse strut incorporated into the crankcase. This was the last Vespa to use the 5% mixture.
Engine: Two-stroke single cylinder engine
Bore: 54 mm
Stroke: 54 mm
Displacement: 124 cc
Top speed: 75 km/h
Suspension: helicoidal spring and hydraulic shock absorber on both wheels
Brakes: drums
Tires: 3.50-8
Vespa 150 GS - 1959
1959
1959
This was the last Vespa in the legendary GS series, first produced in 1955 with the successive engine and styling improvements made to the VS versions and numbered 2 to 5. The VS5 front shield had a stainless steel rim and a die-cast handlebar that concealed the control cables, exactly as on the VS2. It had a characteristic fan-shaped speedometer and the rear lamp had a stop light, which had become compulsory, with chrome trim. The front mudguard crest also had a new design. There were significant improvements to the braking system and the engine in general. It had a new carburetor and cylinder head with a hike in horsepower to make running smoother and more flexible. This model was manufactured from 1959 to 1962.
Engine: Two-stroke single cylinder engine
Bore: 57 mm
Stroke: 57 mm
Displacement: 144.5 cc
Top speed: 94 km/h
Suspension: coil springs and hydraulic shock absorbers
Brakes: drums
Tires: 3.50-10
Vespa 150 - 1960
1960
1960
This is the evolution of the Vespa 150 (VBA), presented in 1958, with very few changes. The color is similar to the previous one (metal sky blue). The side sacks are enriched by two aluminum decorations, and the rear light is larger and completely chrome-plated.
This model enjoyed great success, thanks to its elegance and functional qualities ever since its first appearance at the Olympic Games in 1960.
Engine: Two-stroke single cylinder engine
Bore: 57 mm
Stroke: 57 mm
Displacement: 145.45 cc
Top speed: 87 km/h
Suspension: coil spring and hydraulic shock absorber on both wheels
Brakes: drums
Tires: 3.50-8
Vespa 160 GS
1962
1962
The Vespa 160 GS, the production of which goes from 1962 to 1964, bring an end to the prestigious series born in 1955, and whose means satisfied the requests of more qualified and demanding customers. Compared with the previous Gran Sport model, the engine has a larger displacement which improves performance; side bags are removable and edged with anticorodal lead aluminum trimmings. New is also the grey white lead color replacing the traditional metal grey. Front suspensions have spring and co-axial shock absorber for a better driving comfort. The compartment on the rear leaves space for the spare wheel, under the left bag. The Vespa 160 GS stars in the famous “Paradise for Two” ad.
Engine: Two-stroke single cylinder engine
Bore: 58 mm
Stroke: 60 mm
Displacement: 158.53 cc
Top speed: 100 km/h
Suspension: helicoidal spring and hydraulic shock absorber on both wheels
Brakes: drums
Tires: 3.50-10
Vespa GL
1962
1962
The Vespa GL (a luxury version of the 150) is considered in 1962 to be the most elegant model ever designed by Piaggio. The body’s new styling gives this vehicle a modern aspect which meets the public’s demands for aesthetics as well as functionality.
Its revolutionary aspect is in the bags – they are more squared than the normal 150 bags, have two aluminum moldings, and also have a trapezoidal light. The alumninum moldings are on the front mudguard as well, its larger dimension allows the use of a bigger wheel (from 8 to 10).
Engine: Two-stroke single cylinder engine
Bore: 57 mm
Stroke: 57 mm
Displacement: 145.45 cc
Top speed: 90.4 km/h
Suspension: variable flexibility coil spring and double-effect hydraulic shock absorber on both wheels
Brakes: drums
Tires: 3.50-10
Vespa 'Dali'
1962
1962
Quarta decima et
Vespa 90
1963
1963
The Vespa 90 was launched in 1963 together with the 50 and they used many of the same components. They were also retailed in a single color: sky blue. About 24,000 units were sold in Italy, and each was equipped with a license plate due to its engine displacement. The Vespa 90 was popular with those that needed to carry a passenger.
Engine: Two-stroke single cylinder engine
Bore: 47 mm
Stroke: 51 mm
Displacement: 88.5 cc
Top speed: 70 km/h
Suspension: helicoidal spring and hydraulic shock absorber on both wheels
Brakes: drums
Tires: 3.00-10
Vespa 50
1963
1963
This was the most popular Vespa with the young. It was brilliant and easy to handle, with attractive, exclusive styling that derives from the line of larger Vespa models. Ever since its first appearance on the market in 1963, it is advertised by Piaggio as young, modern, and without licensing documents needed. With the 1963 Rules of the Road, no numberplate nor licenseplate are required even for fourteen years old. The engine is completely new, with the cylinder positioned at a 45 degree angle and no longer horizontal. This was the last scooter to be designed by Corradino D’Ascanio, and it is a milestone in the history of Vespa: from 1964 to the present day, over 3 million have been built.
Engine: Two-stroke single cylinder engine
Bore: 38 mm
Stroke: 43 mm
Displacement: 49 cc
Top speed: 70 km/h
Suspension: rubber elements at the front, coil spring and hydraulic shock absorber at the rear
Brakes: drums
Tires: 2.75-9
Vespa Miliatry Prototype
1964
1964
Like other motorcycle producers, in the 1960s Piaggio spent part of its research on the military use of their vehicle.
The first projects presented in 1964 to the Ministry of Defense in Italy date back to the beginning of the 50s, of which there is written evidence such as drawings (like the image that compares the Vespa 125 with a motorcycle). The 1964 model derives from the Vespa 125 (VMA1) with a few changes on the frame to reduce encumbrance. In fact, the handlebar and the front wheel can be quickly removed and placed on the left-side sack. After negotiations with the Italian Ministry of Defense, the Vespa Military has remained as a prototype.
Engine: Two-stroke single cylinder engine
Bore: 57 mm
Stroke:51mm
Displacement: 121.17 cc
Top speed: 80 km/h
Suspension: coil spring and hydraulic shock absorber on both wheels
Brakes: drums
Tires: 3.00-10
Vespa 90 Super Sprint
1965
1965
The Super Sprint is no doubt the most stylish Vespa with its unmistakable aggressive design, its speed, its irresistible spurt and its stirring riding. Production started in 1965. It features a smaller legshield and an oddments pannier placed between the saddle and the handlebar. Like the Vespa GS of 1955, the spare wheel can be positioned in the middle of the floor platform. Exploiting the success of the Vespa Super Sprint, like the Vespa 50, it is among one of the most sought-after models. A real collector’s item.
Engine: Two-stroke single cylinder engine
Bore: 47 mm
Stroke: 51mm
Displacement: 88.5 cc
Top speed: 93 km/h
Suspension: coil spring and hydraulic shock absorber on both wheels
Brakes: drums
Tires: 3.00-10
Vespa Alpha (Vespa 180ss)
1967
1967
This vehicle appeared in the film “Dick Smart, Agent 2007” (1967) starring Richard Wyler, Margaret Lee, and Rosanna Tapados.
For this movie, the Vespa 180 Super Sport was transformed by Piaggio and by the English factory Alpha Willis to race along the road, fly like a helicopter, sail and dive like a submarine.
Engine: Two-stroke single cylinder engine
Bore: 62 mm
Stroke: 60 mm
Displacement: 181.145 cc
Top speed: 105 km/h
Suspension: coil spring and hydraulic shock absorber on both wheels
Brakes: drums
Tires: 3.50-10
Vespa 125 Primavera
1967
1967
Derived from the Vespa 125 VMA1, the Vespa 125 Primavera (Spring) met with immediate success in 1967. Easy to handle, trim, quick and powerful are some of the attributes that describe the Vespa Primavera of the 1960s. The young are the main characters of the spot Con Vespa si puo (With Vespa it’s possible) that addresses teens above 16 who love sport and nature, and do not like to get stuck in the traffic and be late for dates with friends.
The main feature is a longer frame, which permits an easier transportation of the passenger.
Engine: Two-stroke single cylinder engine
Bore: 55 mm
Stroke: 51 mm
Displacement: 121.17 cc
Top speed: 85 km/h
Suspension: elastic with coil spring and hydraulic shock absorber on both wheels
Brakes: drums
Tires: 3.00-10
Vespa 180 Rally
1968
1968
After the success of the Vespa Super Sport 180, Piaggio puts the new 180cc vehicle on the market in 1968 with completely new mechanics and frame, which derive from the Vespa Sprint of 1966. There are some aesthetical changes to the handlebar, storage box, and saddle. The Vespa Rally 180 is still one of the most functional and the best looking vehicles. Its production began in 1968 and ended in 1973, with a total of 26,000 vehicles built.
Engine: Two-stroke engine
Bore: 63.5 mm
Stroke: 57 mm
Displacement: 180 cc
Top speed: over 100 km/h
Suspension: helicoidal springs and hydraulic shock absorbers on both wheels
Brakes: drum
Tires: 3.50-10
Vespa 50 Special
1969
1969
Sold in the years of maximum protest against society, the Vespa 50 Special was proposed to the new generation with stylish changes to the handlebar as well as to the front and rear lights, suggesting color contrasts which give it a pleasantly modern aspect (as a brochure from those years suggests).
The same year sees the launch of the Vespa 50 Elestart too, featuring the same design as the 50 Special, but with an innovative technical solution: the electric start. From 1969 to 1973 one of the most famous Piaggio advertising campaigns with the play off the “Chi Vespa mangia le mele” accompanies the Vespa 50 Special’s success.
Engine: Two-stroke engine
Bore: 38.4 mm
Stroke: 43 mm
Displacement: 50 cc
Top speed: 40 km/h
Suspension: helicoidal springs and hydraulic shock absorbers on both wheels
Brakes: drum
Tires: 2.75-9
Vespa 50 with Pedals
1970
1970
In 1970 in order to be sold on the French market, the Vespa 50 underwent a particular transformation: pedals. Although little appreciated from an aesthetical point of view, this solution was necessary to adapt to the French homologation provisions.
Today, the Vespa 50 with pedals is wanted by many lovers of the most famous scooter in the world.
Engine: Two-stroke engine
Bore: 38.4 mm
Stroke: 43 mm
Displacement: 50 cc
Top speed: 40 km/h
Suspension: helicoidal springs and hydraulic shock absorbers on both wheels
Brakes: drum
Tires: 2.75-9
Vespa Rally 200
1972
1972
After the Vespa 180s great success, Piaggio presents for the first time in 1972 the Vespa 200cc. It has immediate success, and the Vespa fans are even ready to wait for months to have it. From an aesthetical point of view, the Vespa Rally 200 is immediately recognizable due to its adhesive stripes on the side s and on the mudguard.
In the same year, the advertising campign Le Sardomobili appears with the following: two powerful and brisk wheels, with quick reflexes, two rally wheels pushed by the new 12 hp engine which reaches 5,700 rpm, two mighty wheels that zoom safely to 100 km/h.
On the side, the writing states that the powerful engine is started electronically, a technological solution adopted by Piaggio.
Engine: Two-stroke engine
Bore: 66.5 mm
Stroke: 57 mm
Displacement: 198 cc
Top speed: 110 km/h
Suspension: helicoidal springs and hydraulic shock absorbers on both wheels
Brakes: drum
Tires: 3.50-10
Vespa 'Primavera ET3'
1976
1976
The Vespa Primavera ET3 is a specific, limited-edition variant (144,000 units were produced overall) of the Vespa Primavera. The initials ET3 indicate that the vehicle had electronic ignition and that the engines single cylinder had a third transfer port. The smaller-sized body, like that of the Vespa 50cc, gave the vehicle more maneuverability, a feature that made this Vespa a favorite of the 1970s youngers. The seat the color of blue jeans of the first few units produced reveals the link between the young and the Primavera ET3. The 125cc ET3 engine resembled the Primavera from the outside but was much faster and more powerful, so that for a long time it was the fastest Vespa in its category.
Engine: Two-stroke engine
Bore: 55 mm
Stroke: 51 mm
Displacement: 198 cc
Top speed: 90 km/h
Suspension: helicoidal springs and hydraulic shock absorbers on both wheels
Brakes: drum
Tires: 3.00-10
Vespa 125 ET3
1976
1976
Produced for the foreign markets in the 1980s, the Vespa 125 ET3 has the same characteristics as the Italian ET3 (1976), except for some details such as the saddle, the cooling fan cover and the color range. It was particularly appreciated in Japan, where it was sold until the mid-1990s.
Engine: Two-stroke engine
Bore: 55 mm
Stroke: 51 mm
Displacement: 198 cc
Top speed: 90 km/h
Suspension: helicoidal springs and hydraulic shock absorbers on both wheels
Brakes: drum
Tires: 3.00-10
Vespa P125X
1977
1977
The Vespa P125X was presented in 1977 at the Milan Motorcycle Exhibition as the Vespa Nuova Linea (New Line). Like the PE200, the P125X is the result of particularly successful and innovative restyling, which takes it into the 1980s and makes a break with earlier models. The Vespa P125X immediately becomes the object of desire of the young, capable of competing with strongly demanded 125 motorcycles. The storage is larger, and the foam polyurethane saddle is more comfortable. The handlebar displays a totally re-styled speedometer easily visible by night too. The front suspension is very innovative and efficient, and is characterized by a telescopic shock absorber fixed to the brake shoe holder and to the oscillating lever near the wheel pivot.
Engine: Two-stroke engine
Bore: 52.5 mm
Stroke: 57 mm
Displacement: 123.4 cc
Top speed: 85.7 km/h
Suspension: variable flexibility coil spring and double-effect hydraulic shock absorber on both wheels
Brakes: drum
Tires: 3.50-10
Vespa Gigante
1977
1977
This Vespa PX model was built for the 1977 show to launch the Vespa in Paris. Brought back and jealously guarded by the Piaggio Warehouse team, the Vespone was painted by artist Stefano Tonelli during the Museums Gesto exhibition in 2001. This special model had been painted red in occasion of the exhibition La Motocicletta Italiana (The Italian Motorcycle) held at the Mazzotta Foundation in Milan.
Vespa 100 Sport (USA)
1978
1978
Derived from the Vespa 90 and launched at the end of the 70s in the United States, the 100 Sport model differentiates from the 90 in details that were needed for the American market regulations. In particular, a larger rear light, blinkers, and a special fuel tank valve. The larger engine displacement, from 90 to 100cc, was obtained by increasing the cylinder bore.
Engine: Two-stroke engine
Bore: 49 mm
Stroke: 51 mm
Displacement: 96.12 cc
Top speed: 80 km/h
Suspension: coil spring and hydraulic shock absorber on both wheels
Brakes: drum
Tires: 3.00-10
Vespa PK
1982
1982
At the end of 1982, the year in which the Italian National soccer team wins the World Cup, the new Vespa PK is presented with two different displacements: 50 and 125. The versions are: Basic, Luxury (optional extras of a case and blinkers), Elestart (with electric start) and Automatic, the new 125 model strategically replaces the Vespa ET3 Primavera, but maintains the same technical characteristics (such as the electronic start) with a completely different design. The inclined straight lines and chassis squared shape are obtained thanks to a new soldering system of the body, which makes the points no longer visible. The four-sided rear part has doors for a better access to the engine (on the right side) and the spare wheel (on the left side). The PK 125 S version is the first Vespa model to have automatic speed gear, an important result for Piaggios continuous research to facilitate technological progress.
Engine: Two-stroke single cylinder engine
Bore: 55 mm
Stroke: 51 mm
Displacement: 121 cc
Top speed: 84.5 km/h
Suspension: variable flexibility coil spring and double effect hydraulic
Brakes: drums
Tires: 2.10-10
Vespa 50S
1985
1985
In 1985 Piaggio plans a faster 50cc model as needed to satisfy some countries’ demands. The engine delivers larger power, even though the bore and stroke remain of the same size. By this time, a license plate was required in Italy on the Vespa 50 S.
Engine: Two-stroke single cylinder engine
Bore: 38.4 mm
Stroke: 51 mm
Displacement: 49.77 cc
Top speed: 60 km/h
Suspension: coil spring and hydraulic shock absorber on both wheels
Brakes: drums
Tires: 3.00-10
Vespa 125 T5 Pole Position
1985
1985
New name and the style characterize the Vespa 125 T5 Pole Position launched in 1985. Aggressive lines, the spoiler, the windscreen, and the digital rev counter underline its sporting look. Piaggio gives this model the difficult task to compete with Japanese production, which has significantly increased by now. The T5 has a new five-transfer engine capable of ensuring high performances, like no other Vespa with a similar displacement ever reached. Its connect to the world of speed races is sealed by choosing Formula One pilot Nelson Piquet as exceptional representative.
Engine: Two-stroke single cylinder engine
Bore: 55 mm
Stroke: 52 mm
Displacement: 123.5 cc
Top speed: 100 km/h
Suspension: helicoidal springs and hydraulic shock absorber on both wheels
Brakes: drums
Tires: 3.50-10
Vespa 50 Special Revival
1991
1991
Proposed at the beginning of the 90s to satisfy both yesterday and today’s enthusiasts, the 50 Special was the most beloved Vespa with the young of the 1960s.
Appreciated all over the world, the 50 Special is back again in 1991 in a limited edition (only 3,000 produced) to become acquainted with those who in the 60s were not yet born or were absent-minded. The 50 Special presents itself as a mythical product of our time and finds a prestigious place at the Museum of Modern Art in New York.
The Vespa 50 Special Revival has a very special history and was kindly donated to the Piaggio Museum by Christa Solbach in November 2004.
Engine: Two-stroke single cylinder engine
Bore: 38.4 mm
Stroke: 43 mm
Displacement: 49.77 cc
4-speed gear box
Suspension: coil springs and hydraulic shock absorber on both wheels
Brakes: drums
Tires: 3.00-10
Vespa ET2-ET4
1996
1996
This is the 50th Anniversary Vespa, solemnly presented in September 1996 in Rome. The Vespa approaches without losing its traditional elegant, appealing, immediately recognizable, and reassuring styling. At the same time, it has become technologically innovative, reaching new milestones in terms of comfort and confirming its greatest point, the ability to reflect the fashions and requirements of the moment better than any other two-wheeler. This is the secret that has made the Vespa the most famous, best loved, best-selling vehicle of all time, a real time-machine on two wheels. The new generation of Vespa is available in three different versions: the Vespa ET4, equipped with an ecological 4-stroke 125 cc engine; the Vespa ET2 injection, powered by the FAST engine (Fully Atomized Stratified Turbulence).
Engine: 2/4-stroke single cylinder engine
Bore: 40/57 mm
Stroke: 39/48.6 mm
Displacement: 494/124.2 cc
Suspension: coil springs and hydraulic shock absorber on both wheels
Brakes: 200 mm diameter stainless steel disc with hydraulic control at the front, 110 mm diameter one cam drum at the rear
Tires: tubeless 100/80x10
Vespa ET
1996
1996
This is the 50th Anniversary Vespa, presented in September 1996 in Rome.
The Vespa approaches the millennium without losing its traditional elegant, appealing, immediately recognizable, and reassuring styling. At the same time, it has become technologically innovative, reaching new milestone in terms of comfort and confirming its greates strong point, the ability to reflect the fashions and requirements of the moment better than any other two-wheeler. In the year 2001 Piaggio calls the Vesparte contest in which fourteen Vespa ET4 compete with the stylists personal interpretations varying from Art to Design. Pezzo Unico is the winner and the second place winner is Vespa Mucca Pazza.
Engine: 2/4-stroke single cylinder engine
Bore: 40/57 mm
Stroke: 39/48.6 mm
Displacement: 494/124.2 cc
Suspension: coil springs and hydraulic shock absorber on both wheels
Brakes: 200 mm diameter stainless steel disc with hydraulic control at the front, 110 mm diameter one cam drum at the rear
Tires: tubeless 100/80x1
Vespa ET4 Ferrari
2001
2001
Piaggio’s homage to the Ferrari racing stable on the occasion of their victory in the Formula One World Championship in 2000. These vehicles, personalized with the names Montezemolo, Todt, Schumacher and Barrichello, are painted on the Ferrari red; the leather saddle is made of the same material used to upholster Ferrari cars.
Engine: 4-stroke single cylinder engine with Piaggio L.E.A.D.E.R
Bore: 57 mm
Stroke: 48.6 mm
Displacement:151 cc
Suspension: single arm with hydraulic shock absorber and coil spring at the front, mono hydraulic shock absorber with pre-charge adjustable in four positions at the rear
Brakes: disc at the front, drum at the rear
Tires: front 100/80x10, rear 120/70x10
Vespa PX 'Trafeli'
2003
2003
The Vespa PX became a real work of art, molded and shaped by Mino Trafelis. Precious anthological exhibition of Trafeli’s work is hosted in the halls of the Piaggio Museum in 2003. Mitologica Vespa (Mythological Vespa) was donated to the museum’s collection by its author, and was defined as follows:
A parallel game that distorts the object in order to create a new shape, using unsuitable materials thus giving birth to new considerations on the object itself. Reconsidering, beside the visual inertia that leads to the shape’s inurnment, the scooter aesthetical valence, and re-discovering the meaning of its unique style which has maintained its original characteristic form, despite the changes of time.
Switzerland
1946
1946
Vespa brochure, designed by MArtinelli
France
1949
1949
Vespa est le scooter le plus diffusedans le monde (Vespa is the most widely distributed scooter in the world) brochure.
Italy
1949
1949
Vespa is the most largely distributed motor scooter in the world brochure.
Italy - Vespa 125cc brochure
1949
1949
Why the Vespa 125cc is the best selling in the world brochure.
United Kingdom - Vespa 125cc brochure 1
1949
1949
Why the Vespa 125cc is the best selling in the world brochure.
United Kingdom - Vespa 125cc brochure 2
1949
1949
Why the Vespa 125cc is the best selling in the world brochure.
Italy - Vespizzatevi!
1950
1950
Vespizzatevi! (Vespa yourselves!) advertising campaign, design by Ferenzi.
Italy - Vespa advertisement
1953
1953
Vespa advertisement with a view of Bologna, original sketch , approx.
Italy - Vespa calendar
1953
1953
1953 Vespa Calendar, designed by Franco Mosca.
Italy - Vespa calendar I
1953
1953
1953 Vespa calendar, designed by Franco Mosca.
France - Vespa yourselves!
1954
1954
Vespa yourselves! advertising campaign, Bernard Villemot.
Italy - Vespa calendar II
1954
1954
1954 Vespa calendar, designed by Franco Mosca.
Denmark
1954
1954
Vespa brochure.
Spain
1955
1955
Vespa the progress of technology brochure designed by Zambelli.
Italy - Vespa brochure
1955
1955
Vespa the progress of technology brochure designed by Zambelli.
Italy - the sun advertising
1955
1955
Vespa filies towards the sun advertising campaign, Raymond Savignac.
France - brochure
1955
1955
Vespa brochure.
Australia
1955
1955
Vespa brochure.
Italy - The Borgeois
1955
1955
Illustrations from Il Borghese (The Borgeois) designed by Leo Longanesi.
Italy - The Borgeois I
1955
1955
Illustrations from Il Borghese (The Borgeois) designed by Leo Longanesi.
Italy - Piaggio greeting card
1955
1955
1955 Piagio greeting card, Virgilio Milana, Graphistudio (Rome).
Italy - Piaggio greeting card I
1955
1955
1956 Piaggio greeting card, Virgilio Milana, Graphistudio (Rome).
Italy - Vespas poster
1956
1956
1,000,000 Vespas poster.
Netherlands
1959
1959
Voor uw transport voor uw genoegenVespa (For your transportation and for your pleasureVespa) brochure.
Brazil
1960
1960
Ecomiza Tempo (Save Time) press campaign.
Kenya
1960
1960
Go by Vespa press campaign.
Portugal
1960
1960
Vespa press campaign.
United Kingdom - Betta Getta
1960
1960
Betta Getta Vespa advertising campaign.
United Kingdom - Indpendence press campaign
1961
1961
Indpendence press campaign.
Italy - Sandro Scarsi
1961
1961
Vespa advertising campaign, Sandro Scarsi.
Italy - the best selling scooter
1961
1961
The best selling scooter in the world advertising campaign, original sketch.
Italy - Their happiness only lacks a Vespa
1962
1962
Their happiness only lacks a Vespa advertising campaign.
United Kingdom - If only we had a Vespa
1962
1962
If only we had a Vespa advertising campaign.
United Kingdom - A paradise for two
1962
1962
A paradise for two advertising campaign.
Italy - A paradise for two
1962
1962
Vespa GS A paradise for two advertising campaign.
Italy -1964
1964
1964
Its not a problem with the advertising campaign. Parking, Virgilio Milana, Graphistudio (Rome).
USA
1964
1964
Maybe your second car shouldnt be a car press campaign.
Thailand
1965
1965
Vespa poster.
Italy - With Vespa you can
1967
1967
Con Vespa si puo (With Vespa you can) advertising campaign copy Pico Tamburino, art Gilberto Filippetti, photography by Tam Fagiuoli, Leader.
USA - Be different, go Vespa
1968
1968
Be different, go Vespa press campaign.
Italy - Vespa riders eat apples
1970
1970
Chi Vespa mangia le mele (Vespa riders eat apples) advertising campaign, Gilberto Filippetti, Leader (Florence).
Italy - Vespa riders eat apples 2
1970
1970
Chi Vespa mangia le mele (Vespa riders eat apples) advertising campaign, Gilberto Filippetti, Leader (Florence).
Italy - Vespa Poster
1970
1970
Vespa Poster, photography by Tam Fagiuoli.
Italy - Going buy myself a Vespa
1971
1971
Mela compro la Vespa (Going buy myself a Vespa) advertising campaign, Gilberto Filippetti, photography by Tam Fagiuoli, Leader (Florence).
Italy -1972
1972
1972
Le sardomobili si sfidano sempre. Pace chi Vespa (Commuters sardines, always fighting. Peace to Vespa riders) advertising campaign, Gilberto.
Italy - brochure
1972
1972
Vespa 150 Sprint Veloce brochure.
Italy -1975 brochure
1975
1975
Vespa Brochure.
Italy - Vespa the cult scooter
1981
1981
Vespa il mito scooter (Vespa the cult scooter) advertising campaign, Gilberto Filippetti, Leader (Florence).
Italy - Vespa 125 ET3 brochure
1981
1981
Vespa 125 Primavera, Vespa 125 ET3 brochure.
Italy - Italys Vespaed
1982
1982
LItalia se Vespa (Italys Vespaed) advertising campaign, Gilberto Filippetti, Leader (Florence).
Italy - Today I'm the sea
1983
1983
Oggi son oil mare (Today I'm the sea) advertising campaign, Gilberto Filippetti, photography by Tam Fagiuoli, Leader (Florence).
Italy - 1998 Vespa Calendar
1998
1998
1998 Vespa Calendar, photography by G.M. Fadda, AReA (Rome).
Italy - Everybodys Free
2000
2000
Everybodys Free advertising campaign, Penguins, photography by Zalai (marco Biondi) Roncaglia & Wijlander (Rome).
Italy - 2002
2002
2002
Vespa ET4 125/150
Italy - 2002 Calendar
2002
2002
Vespa 2002 Calendar
Italy - Vespa GTS Beep Beep
2005
2005
Vespa GTS Beep Beep, agency TBWA/Italia, art director: Christana Baccelli, copywriter: Gina Ridenti, photographer: Roberto Carrer.
Italy - Vespa LX Contorsionista
2005
2005
Vespa LX Contorsionista, agency TBWA/Italia, art director: Christana Baccelli, copywriter: Gina Ridenti, photographer: Paolo Zambaldi.
Italy - 2006
2006
2006
Vespa LX 2006
Italy - Vespa 60 anniversary
2006
2006
Vespa 60 anniversary
USA - Vintage themed Vespa prmotion
2008
2008
Vintage themed Vespa prmotion.
Italy - Vespa riders eat apples 3
1970
1970
Chi Vespa mangia le mele (Vespa riders eat apples) advertising campaign, Gilberto Filippetti, Leader (Florence).
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