Wideframe Era
1946-1961
The original Vespa design with a wide, curved body and distinctive 'wasp-like' silhouette. These feature the classic rod-operated gear change and smaller 8-inch wheels.
Collectibility: High - Most valuable to collectors, especially early examplesRestored Value: $8,000 - $50,000+
Era Characteristics
Rod gear change
8-inch wheels
Wide curved body
Beaded frame construction
Models from this Era (6)
Vespa 98
Paperino1946-1947
Engine:
98cc
Top Speed:
60 km/h (37 mph)
The original Vespa - the one that started it all
Extremely High$30,000 - $100,000+
Vespa 125 Bacchetta
Rod1948-1950
Engine:
125cc
Top Speed:
70 km/h (43 mph)
First 125cc Vespa, introduced rear suspension
Very High$15,000 - $40,000
Vespa 125
1953-1957
Engine:
125cc
Top Speed:
75 km/h (47 mph)
Major engine improvements, increased power
High$10,000 - $25,000
Vespa 150
1954-1967
Engine:
150cc
Top Speed:
80 km/h (50 mph)
Larger engine, headlamp mounted above wheel
High$8,000 - $20,000
Vespa 150 GS (Gran Sport)
1955-1961
Engine:
150cc
Top Speed:
100 km/h (62 mph)
The most popular, imitated, and remembered Vespa model ever
Extremely High$15,000 - $35,000
Vespa 160 GS
1962-1964
Engine:
160cc
Top Speed:
100 km/h (62 mph)
Continuation of the legendary GS line
Very High$12,000 - $28,000