A Vespa is a brand of Italian scooters and mopeds manufactured by Piaggio. The name means “wasp” in Italian, and the Vespa is known for its distinctive wasp-like design. Vespas are also known for their reliability, fuel efficiency, and stylish appearance.
Today, I assure you, that Vespas are still very popular, and they are available in a wide variety of models and engine sizes. Vespas are a popular choice for commuters, students, and people who simply enjoy riding a stylish and fun scooter.
Vespas are available in a variety of models and engine sizes, so you can find the perfect Vespa for your needs. But how much is a Vespa scooter? Read on, because I’ll tell you all about it!
What Is a Vespa Scooter?
A Vespa scooter is a type of motor scooter manufactured by the Italian company Piaggio. Vespas are known for their distinctive design, which includes a step-through frame, a prominent front fairing, and a painted pressed steel unibody. Vespas are also known for their reliability, fuel efficiency, and ease of use.
Here are some of the key features of a Vespa scooter:
- Step-through frame: This makes it easy to get on and off the scooter, even while wearing a skirt or dress.
- Prominent front fairing: This provides wind protection and helps to make the scooter more stable.
- Painted, pressed steel unibody: This makes the scooter lightweight and durable.
- Four-stroke engine: This type of engine is more fuel efficient and produces fewer emissions than a two-stroke engine.
- Automatic transmission: This makes the scooter easy to ride, even for riders with no experience.
- Classic design: Vespas have a classic design that has remained largely unchanged since the scooter was first introduced in 1946. This makes Vespas instantly recognizable and timeless.
Why Are Vespas so Popular?
Vespas were first introduced in 1946, and they quickly became popular in Europe and around the world. Vespas were especially popular with women, as they could be ridden while wearing skirts or dresses. Vespas have also been featured in many popular movies and TV shows, such as Roman Holiday, La Dolce Vita, and Mad Men.
Today, Vespas are still popular scooters, and they are available in a variety of models and engine sizes. Vespas are a good choice for city riding, as they are easy to maneuver and park. Vespas are also a good choice for commuters, as they are fuel-efficient and can help riders avoid traffic.
Vespas are available in a variety of colors and styles, so there is a Vespa to suit everyone’s taste. Vespas are also relatively affordable, making them a good value for the money.
How Much Does a Vespa Scooter Cost?
The price of a Vespa scooter varies depending on the model, engine size, features, and whether it is new or used.
In general, new Vespa scooters cost between $4,000 and $8,000. Used Vespa scooters can be purchased for less, but it is important to have the scooter inspected by a qualified mechanic before buying it.
Here is a table showing the different Vespa models, their prices (new, used, and full features), and their engine sizes:
| Model | Price (new) | Price (used) | Price Range (full features) | Engine size |
| Primavera | $4,199 | $3,500-$5,000 | $4,500-$6,000 | 50cc, 125cc, 150cc |
| Sprint | $4,499 | $4,000-$5,500 | $4,800-$6,500 | 50cc, 125cc, 150cc |
| Elettrica | $7,999 | $6,500-$8,000 | $8,500-$9,500 | Electric |
| GTS | $7,799 | $6,000-$8,500 | $8,000-$10,000 | 300cc |
| GTS Super | $8,499 | $6,500-$9,000 | $8,500-$10,500 | 300cc |
| Sei Giorni | $8,499 | $7,000-$9,500 | $9,000-$11,000 | 300cc |
| 946 10° Anniversario | $10,999 | $9,500-$11,500 | $11,000-$13,000 | 125cc |
| GTV | $11,499 | $10,000-$12,000 | $11,500-$14,000 | 300cc |
These prices are estimates and may vary from the actual sales price depending on the dealer, location, and condition of the scooter.
Full features may include:
- ABS braking
- Traction control
- Keyless ignition
- Remote seat opening
- USB port
- Heated grips
- Windshield
- Luggage rack
Engine sizes:
- 50cc: The smallest engine size, suitable for city riding and short trips.
- 125cc: A good balance of power and fuel efficiency, suitable for city and highway riding.
- 150cc: More powerful than the 125cc, but still fuel-efficient.
- 300cc: The most powerful engine size, suitable for highway riding and long trips.
How Much Does Maintaining a Vespa Scooter Cost?
The cost of maintaining a Vespa scooter varies depending on the model, engine size, how often you ride it, and how well you take care of it. In general, Vespa scooters are relatively low-maintenance vehicles. However, there are some routine maintenance tasks that need to be performed on a regular basis, such as:
- Oil changes
- Filter changes
- Brake inspections
- Tire inspections
The cost of these maintenance tasks can vary depending on the dealer or mechanic that you use. However, you can save money on maintenance by performing some of these tasks yourself.
Here is a breakdown of the estimated cost of some common Vespa scooter maintenance tasks:
| Item | Price | Frequency of change | Additional information |
| Oil change | $50-$75 | Every 3,000 to 5,000 miles | Use the recommended oil type and viscosity. |
| Tire change | $100-$150 per tire | Every 5,000 to 10,000 miles | Replace both tires at the same time. |
| Brake pad change | $50-$75 per brake pad | Every 10,000 to 15,000 miles | Replace the brake pads on both axles at the same time. |
| Belt change | $100-$200 | Every 10,000 to 15,000 miles | Replace the belt if it is cracked or worn. |
| Spark plug change | $10-$20 per spark plug | Every 10,000 to 15,000 miles | Replace the spark plugs if they are fouled or worn. |
| Air filter change | $10-$20 | Every 10,000 to 15,000 miles | Replace the air filter if it is dirty or clogged. |
| Fluid flushes | $20-$50 per fluid | Every 10,000 to 15,000 miles | Flush the brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid every 2 years or 24,000 miles. |
Please note that these are estimates and costs may vary depending on the dealer, location, and model of the scooter.
It is also important to note that some maintenance items, such as oil changes and tire changes, may need to be performed more often if you ride your scooter frequently.
It is a good idea to keep a record of all maintenance performed on your Vespa scooter. This will help you to track when maintenance is due and to identify any potential problems early. I strongly recommend that.
Factors that Affect the Price of a Vespa Scooter
When buying a Vespa scooter, it is important to consider all of the factors that can affect the price. It is also important to shop around and compare prices from different dealers.
The price of a Vespa scooter is affected by a number of factors, including:
- Model: Different Vespa models have different starting prices. For example, the Primavera is the most affordable Vespa model, while the GTV is the most expensive.
- Engine size: Vespa scooters are available in a variety of engine sizes. Larger-engine scooters are more expensive than smaller-engine scooters.
- Features: Vespa scooters come with a variety of features, such as different seats, windscreens, and accessories. Scooters with more features are more expensive than scooters with fewer features. Their speed is going to typically go up as the price does.
- New vs. used: New Vespa scooters are more expensive than used Vespa scooters. However, used Vespa scooters can be a good option if you are on a budget.
- Location: The price of a Vespa scooter can vary depending on the location where it is purchased. For example, Vespa scooters are more expensive in major cities than in rural areas.
- Dealer markup: The dealer markup is the difference between the wholesale price of a Vespa scooter and the retail price that the dealer charges. The dealer markup can vary depending on the dealer.
- Taxes and fees: Taxes and fees can add to the cost of a Vespa scooter. The amount of taxes and fees that you pay will vary depending on your location.
- Shipping and delivery fees: If you purchase a Vespa scooter online, you may be charged shipping and delivery fees.
Tips for Getting the Best Deal on a Vespa Scooter
Vespa scooters are a popular choice for commuters, students, and people who simply enjoy riding a stylish and fun scooter. However, Vespas can be expensive. Here are some tips for getting the best deal and a premium price on a Vespa scooter:
- Shop around and compare prices. Don’t buy the first Vespa you see. Take the time to shop around and compare prices from different dealers. You may be able to find a better deal if you are willing to travel to a different dealership.
- Look for sales and discounts. Vespa dealerships often have sales and discounts throughout the year. Be sure to check with your local dealership to see if they have any current promotions.
- Consider buying a used Vespa. Used Vespas can be a great way to save money. However, it is important to have the scooter inspected by a qualified mechanic before buying it.
- Negotiate with the dealer. Don’t be afraid to negotiate with the dealer. You may be able to get a lower price on a Vespa scooter if you are willing to negotiate.
- Buy at the end of the season. Vespa dealerships are more likely to offer discounts on scooters at the end of the riding season.
- Buy a less popular model. Less popular Vespa models are often cheaper than more popular models.
- Buy a scooter with a smaller engine. Smaller-engine Vespa scooters are cheaper than larger-engine Vespa scooters.
- Buy a scooter with fewer features. Vespa scooters with fewer features are cheaper than Vespa scooters with more features.
By following these tips, you can save money on the purchase of a Vespa scooter.
The Bottom Line
The price of a Vespa scooter varies depending on a number of factors, including the model, engine size, features, new vs. used, and location.
In general, new Vespa scooters cost between $4,000 and $8,000. Used Vespa scooters can be purchased for less, but it is important to have the scooter inspected by a qualified mechanic before buying it.
