Most new Vespas will run you between $4,000 and $5,000. However, there are many Vespa models, both new and classic, not to mention clones and other scooters that people often refer to as “Vespas.”
With the variety of scooters to choose from, Vespas and non-Vespas alike, you’ll find a wide range of prices while looking for the perfect scooter.
What Is a Vespa?
Vespa is a specific brand of scooter, and really the original brand of scooter. Owned by Piaggio & Co. S.p.A., an Italian manufacturing company based in Pontedera, Tuscany.
Vespa started in 1946 with just a single 98 cc model that cost 55,000 Italian lire. That was roughly $250 back then, but adjusted for inflation, that’s about $4,000. In other words, Vespa prices haven’t changed a whole lot in the last 75 years.
Sometimes, though, people refer to scooters and mopeds that aren’t made by the Vespa company as “Vespas.” Usually, they’re talking about similar vehicles manufactured by other companies to compete with the Vespa.
Like the Vespa, they often have the same fully enclosed bodywork, a flat footboard, an automatic transmission and a small engine not capable of highway speeds.
This is opposed to a standard “motorcycle,” which has exposed machinery, lateral footrests, a manual transmission, and generally a larger, more powerful engine.
Popular Vespas and Their Prices
Before we get into the Vespa clones, let’s take a brief look at the various Vespa models and how their prices vary.
Vespa Primavera
MSRP: $4,149–$5,999
The Primavera is the most basic Vespa line and is available in a wide range of models with engine displacements of either 50 cc or 150 cc. Most of the 50 cc models are just a little over $4,000, while the 150 cc models can run upwards of $6,000.
Vespa Sprint
MSRP: $4,299–$6,549
Along with the Primavera, the Sprint is one of Vespa’s most popular lines. They’re a bit lighter and zippier than the Primaveras thanks to a fully aluminum frame, but they come in the same two sizes: 50 cc and 150 cc.
Again, the 50 cc is closer to $4,000 and the 150 cc closer to $6,000. Just keep in mind that if you want one of the special edition Justin Bieber Sprints, expect to add around $700.
Vespa GTS
MSRP: $7,799–$8,499
The GTS and the GTS Supers are more niche models with a more powerful 300 cc engine, which is on the large side for a scooter. Naturally, this makes them more expensive too. The most expensive GTS Super 300 Tech runs $8,500.
Vespa Sei Giorni
MSRP: $7,749
The Sei Giorni is a high-end Vespa designed as a throwback to the racing Vespas of the early 1950s. It has a large 300 cc engine, so the price is higher at nearly $8,000.
How Much Is a Classic Vespa?
Classic Vespas are a major collector’s item for fans of 1950s and 60s culture. As a result, original Piaggio Vespas from the 50s or 60s in good condition can run well over $20,000.
That said, it’s still possible to find well-kept classic Vespas from that era with only a small premium to the cost. For example, 60s 150 cc models often run between $6,000 and $10,000.
Of course, used Vespas, those from the last decade or so, are a different matter. You can often find low-mileage models from recent years with several hundred to $1,000 shaved off the price.
This is a good option for those on a budget who still want the Vespa brand.
How Much Is a Vespa Clone?
You can find inexpensive Vespa imitations made by other brands for as low as $2,000.
Through the 70s, Vespa faced increasing competition in the US market from Japanese manufacturers. It abandoned the US market in 1981, and though it ultimately returned in 2001, it’s safe to say Vespa clones have become a popular—and often cheaper—alternative. These are some of the most common:
Honda Ruckus
MSRP: $2,899
The Ruckus is a bit different since it has a lightweight skeleton frame as opposed to the Vespa’s complete cowling, but the sitting position and 49 cc engine are much the same. The Ruckus is a popular model in its own right and actually one of the more expensive Vespa clones at nearly $3,000.
Read about the Honda Ruckus top speed
Honda Metropolitan
MSRP: $2,599
The Metropolitan looks more like what you’d think of when you hear “Vespa.” In fact, Honda even advertises it as a “European scooter.” It has retro styling harking back to the Vespas of the 50s and 60s, along with convenient storage for urban mobility.
Kymco Agility
MSRP: $1,999
A lesser-known Taiwanese brand, Kymco makes a budget scooter that is admittedly not as sleek-looking as the Vespa but is still a good option for urban mobility nonetheless. If you’re looking for a bigger engine, Kymco also makes the Like 150i that runs for $3,499.
SYM Mio 50
MSRP: $1,999
Another Taiwanese model, the Mio 50 combines both retro and modern scooter designs in an inexpensive 50 cc package. SYM also makes the 169 cc Fiddle 4 200i with an MSRP of $3,599.