When you clearly study the world of scooters, it has a completely different aura and glamor. If you want to know the history of two-wheeled transportation, few brands were able to capture people’s hearts and attention with style and practicality. One among them is Vespa, and every two-wheeler rider knows about this Italian scooter. Vespa is known for its style, elegance, and history, and it has transcended decades and even cultural movements.
Vespa has a strong fan base, as it is not only considered a mode of transportation but also a symbol of freedom, fashion, and innovation. Now, if you are a new scooter enthusiast or are planning to become one, you might have a recurring question: Are Vespa scooters considered expensive or not?
So, in this guide, I’ve written a full breakdown of Vespa scooters, their true costs, and their value.
What Makes Vespa Scooters Special
If you carefully look at the story of the birth of Vespa in post-World War II Italy, you’ll understand why it still holds importance and fame even today. The Piaggio company, originally a manufacturer of railway carriages, aircraft, and military vehicles, needed to pivot after the war. Enrico Piaggio, the son of the company’s founder, envisioned a new, affordable means of transportation that people could easily afford and use on the roads.
In 1946, Piaggio introduced the first Vespa scooter—the Vespa 98. Designed by aeronautical engineer Corradino D’Ascanio, the scooter featured a revolutionary monocoque chassis, a front fender, and an enclosed engine, making it both stylish and practical.
Today, Vespa continues to blend its rich heritage with cutting-edge technology. The launch of electric Vespas in recent years reflects the brand’s commitment to sustainability without compromising on style. The Vespa Elettrica, introduced in 2018, offers a silent yet powerful ride, making it an eco-friendly alternative for city dwellers.
Vespa scooters are built with metal, making them more expensive than other scooters. The unibody construction of the bike’s frame contributes to its higher cost. I really like the fact that it’s also known for its durability, as most 30-year-old models are still running well.
So if you ask yourself, “Is it a good investment?”, I guess it is.
But is it expensive? Let’s find out!
Are Vespa Scooters Expensive?
Vespa scooters are so highly regarded as they represent a lifestyle choice, blending fashion and function seamlessly. These scooters appeal to scooter lovers who value aesthetics as much as performance. However, this premium positioning comes at a price. Vespa scooters are generally more expensive than their competitors, but many riders argue that the cost is justified by the brand’s durability, resale value, and overall experience.
Vespa Primavera
- Price: $4,999 to $6,499
- Engine: 50cc to 150cc
The Primavera is considered one of Vespa’s most popular models, offering a perfect balance of style and performance. If you ever see a Vespa on the road, you feel like taking it for a ride. It’s ideal for city commuting and comes in various trims, including the Primavera 50, Primavera 150, and special editions. You can choose this as your vacation or holiday partner to explore popular cities like Hawaii.
Vespa LX
- Price: $4,999 to $5,999
- Engine: 50cc to 150cc
The Vespa LX is a more affordable, entry-level model that still retains Vespa’s signature style. It’s a great option for you if you’re a first-time scooter buyer or on a tight budget.
Vespa Sprint
- Price: $5,299 to $6,799
- Engine: 50cc to 150cc
The Vespa Sprint is a sportier version of the Primavera, with a slightly more aggressive design and enhanced performance features. You can see why it’s a favorite among younger riders and those looking for a more dynamic ride.
Vespa GTS Super
- Price: $7,999 to $8,499
- Engine: 300cc
The GTS Super is Vespa’s flagship model, designed for riders who want more power and versatility. With a 300cc engine, you can ride this on city streets and highways, making it a versatile option for riders.
Vespa GTV
- Price: $8,999 to $10,499
- Engine: 300cc
The GTV is a retro-inspired model that combines classic Vespa styling with modern technology. It features a distinctive vintage look, complete with a chrome front fender and analog-style instrumentation while offering the same 300cc engine as the GTS Super.
Vespa Elettrica
- Price: $7,499 to $8,999
- Engine: Electric
The Elettrica is Vespa’s foray into electric mobility, offering a silent, eco-friendly ride with the same iconic design. While it’s more expensive than traditional gas-powered models, it appeals to environmentally conscious riders.
The Italian brand has sold over 18 million scooters worldwide, making it a well-established and reputable name. But the models that I love and would love to ride are the limited edition models. They can be pricey, but they deserve a special mention—they should be honored in a museum for scooters!
Vespa 946 Dragon
- Price: $11,999 to $13,999
- Engine: 150cc
The 946 Dragon is a limited-edition model that represents the pinnacle of Vespa’s design and craftsmanship. Inspired by the Chinese zodiac, this scooter features exquisite detailing, premium materials, and a high-performance 150cc engine. It’s a collector’s item and one of the most expensive Vespa models available.
Vespa Sei Giorni
- Price: $11,790
The Vespa Sei Giorni beautifully harnesses the classic sporting spirit of original Vespas, with features such as the lights placed on the front mudguard, a handlebar with an exposed metallic tube, and an elegant instrument panel with an analog speedometer on a white background.
Factors Behind the Premium Price Tag
Vespa scooters might be small in size, but we can’t ignore their eloquent beauty and special position in the global scooter market. Here are some factors that make Vespas expensive.
Vespas Are Status Symbols Made in Italy
All Vespas for the European, African, Middle Eastern and American markets are manufactured at the Pontedera plant in Italy, where the brand was born in 1946. Due to higher labor costs, Vespas are more expensive compared to other brands, which are often produced in Asia.
Vespas Are Made of Steel
All Vespas are made with a monocoque steel frame, making them heavier but sturdier than other scooter brands. As we all know, steel is more expensive than plastic parts used in most scooters.
Throughout Piaggio’s history, all Vespas have been crafted from steel. The latest Vespas, such as the Vespa 946, GTS Sei Giorni, and Vespa Elettrica, continue this tradition. Additionally, the craftsmanship, attention to detail, and high-quality finish add to the price tag.
Vespa Is a Premium Brand
Vespa is a premium brand with no competition at the top of the scooter market. For premium brands, price is often an indicator of quality, and that is exactly what Vespa is known for.
Piaggio ensures that Vespa customers value the brand not only for its functionality (navigating through any traffic) and technology (modern and reliable performance) but also for emotional appeal.
If you take a good look at the design of the display, lights, buttons, saddle, floorboard, leg shield, and side panels, you’ll understand why Vespa scooters cost more.
Innovation on Two Wheels
Yes, Vespa scooters are stylish, but they’re also about innovation. The four-stroke electronic injection engine ensures a smooth and fuel-efficient ride around the city.
Vespa also prioritizes road safety, featuring:
- 220 mm double disc brakes
- Twin-channel ABS braking system
- Large 12-inch wheels for better stability
Additional Features
Vespa often incorporates advanced features and technology, which contribute to their higher price point. Newer models come with cutting-edge upgrades that justify their premium pricing:
- ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) – Prevents skidding during braking.
- Traction Control – Keeps the wheels from slipping on tricky roads.
- Fuel Injection – Increases engine efficiency and eco-friendliness.
- LED Lighting – Provides brighter lights and a modern instrument panel.
- Keyless Ignition (on select models) – Allows riders to start the scooter without inserting a key.
Special Limited Editions
Limited-edition or collectible scooters are something every scooter lover looks forward to. Piaggio launches special Vespa editions in small numbers, which greatly influence the price.
In modern times, Piaggio built the Vespa 946 in 2013, producing only 3,600 examples under the “Ricordo Italiano” collection in white/red or black/grey.
Piaggio chose the number 946 because 1946 was the year Vespa was introduced to the world.
In 2016, they created the Vespa 946 under the “Emporio Armani” collection, featuring olive green/dark grey colors. The last “Red” collection was manufactured in 2017.
Market Demand for Vespa Scooters
Vespa scooters are high in demand and are famous for their brand prestige and practicality. Here are some factors that drive the market demand for Vespa scooters.
Urban Mobility Solutions
As cities become more congested, we often tend to lean towards efficient and compact transportation methods. Vespa scooters are a perfect choice for urban environments, offering easy maneuverability, excellent fuel efficiency, and eco-conscious options with their electric scooters. Vespa is considered a popular choice for commuters in buzzing cities all around the world.
Tourism and Rental Markets
In tourist destinations like Hawaii, Vespa scooters are a favorite among scooter rentals. Their stylish appearance and ease of use to navigate through traffic make them an attractive option for visitors exploring Hawaii City in their own fun and unique way. Even scooter rental businesses often prefer Vespas because they give a luxurious feel to tourists exploring the city.
Cultural and Lifestyle Appeal
Vespa scooters are more than just a mode of transportation—they are a cultural icon. Associated with Italian elegance, vintage charm, and a carefree lifestyle, Vespas appeals to riders who value aesthetics and self-expression.
Resale Value of Vespa Scooters
One of the most compelling reasons to invest in a Vespa scooter is because of its impressive resale value. Vespa scooters retain their value at a rate of 72.1% of their purchase price. In fact, in the 2-year-old scooter models list, Vespa models hold strong with over 80% value retention. Here’s why:
- Brand Prestige: There are not many scooters that can tell a story like Piaggio. As a globally recognized brand with a rich history, Vespa commands a premium in the resale market. Buyers are willing to pay more for a Vespa because of its association with quality and style.
- Fashionable Looks: The craftsmanship and Italian design of the Vespa set them apart from the rest. They are considered the Maserati of scooters. It has become a lifestyle scooter, making it more expensive than most of the scooter market.
- Build Quality and Durability: As you know, Vespa scooters are built to last, with high-quality materials and meticulous craftsmanship. Their reputation for reliability means that used Vespas are often in excellent condition, further boosting their resale value.
- Limited-Edition Models: If you care about special editions, models like the Vespa 946 Dragon or Sei Giorni often appreciate in value over time, especially if kept in pristine condition. These models are highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts.
Comparing Vespa Scooters to Other Brands
Yes, Vespa scooters are significantly more expensive than other scooter brands on the market. Let’s look at a small comparison with major competitors like Honda, Yamaha, and other scooter brands.
Honda
- Models: Honda Metropolitan, Honda PCX
- Price Range: $2,599 to $4,999
Yamaha
- Models: Yamaha Zuma, Yamaha Smax
- Price Range: $2,600 to $6,299
We already know that Honda and Yamaha are known for their reliability and affordability, making them popular choices for budget-conscious buyers. However, they lack the premium design and brand prestige of Vespa. While they offer excellent value for money, they don’t quite match Vespa’s combination of style, quality, and resale value.
Chinese brands like Taotao and Jonway are the most affordable options on the market, with prices as low as $1,000 for 50cc models. However, these scooters are often made with lower-quality materials and lack the durability, performance, and safety features of Vespa.
Is Vespa Worth the Premium Price?
If you are looking for both comfort and luxury, then investing in a Vespa is the right choice for you. It has an impressive mileage of around 50-55 km/pl and is designed for both city and highway riding.
Owning a Vespa scooter can be fun, as Vespa scooters are undeniably stylish, with their sleek curves, chrome accents, and retro-inspired aesthetics. Riding a Vespa is a fashion statement, turning heads wherever you go.
Vespa scooters also offer a sense of community, with many owners joining Vespa clubs and attending scooter events.
The higher price is also justified by:
- Strong resale value
- Superior quality and durability
- Iconic premium feel
Final Thoughts
Vespa scooters are a unique blend of style, practicality, and heritage, making them a standout choice in the scooter market. Their strong market demand, impressive resale value, and numerous advantages make them an attractive option for urban commuters, tourists, and lifestyle enthusiasts alike. However, the higher initial cost and limitations for highway use may deter some buyers.
For those who really value style, fashion, luxury, and performance, the higher price of Vespa scooters can be justified. For those seeking a practical and stylish solution to urban transportation, there’s no better choice than a Vespa. Whether you’re zipping through city streets or turning heads at a cafe, a Vespa scooter is more than just a ride—it’s once in a lifetime experience.
FAQs
Do you need a license for a Vespa in the USA?
In most states, scooters are 50 cc or smaller and require only an instructor’s permit. If your motor vehicle exceeds 60cc it will require a motorcycle endorsement.
Why is a Vespa so expensive?
Vespa scooters are highly expensive as they are international premium brand vehicles known for their exceptional quality. While they offer comfort and sophisticated design, they remain inaccessible and unaffordable for many people worldwide.