Overview Vespa 98

The Vespa 98 was Piaggio's first series-produced model and is considered the origin of all subsequent Vespa scooters. It was produced between 1946 and 1947 in a total of four series (V.98/1, V.98/2, V.98/3 and V.98/4), with only minor modifications between the series. Its most characteristic feature is the free step-through, which has remained a central element of Vespa models to this day. The Vespa 98 has a 98 cc two-stroke engine and reaches a top speed of around 60 km/h with the three-speed gearbox. The evenly curved Legshield provides the typical appearance, while a classic Centre Stand is missing: instead, a double-sided outrigger on the rear Footboards is used for parking.

Vespa 98 model history

The prototypes Paperino (also known as MP5) and MP6 developed by Corradino D'Ascanio and Enrico Piaggio formed the basis for the Vespa 98. After the end of the war, Piaggio wanted to offer a compact, inexpensive and, above all, easy-to-handle vehicle that would be ideal for the resurgence of inner-city traffic. The first version, which appeared in 1946 as the V.98/1 and V.98/2, was replaced in 1947 by the V.98/3 and V.98/4 series, but without any significant changes to the Engine, bodywork or chassis. This resulted in a total of four versions, all of which laid the foundations for the international success of the Vespa brand.

The Engine of the Vespa 98

At the heart of the Vespa 98 is an air-cooled single-cylinder two-stroke engine with a displacement of 98 cc. This engine provides enough power to accelerate the scooter to around 60 km/h, which was perfectly adequate in the narrow streets of post-war Italy. Gears are changed via a three-speed gearbox, which ensures the power connection to the rear wheel and, thanks to its ease of use, also made it easier for inexperienced riders to get started. With its reliability and ease of maintenance, the Engine set an early standard for mopeds of this era.

Situation on the used Vespa 98 market

As the Vespa 98 was only produced for a relatively short time and in relatively small numbers, surviving originals are rare today. In well-restored or even largely untouched original condition, these vehicles are traded at high prices on the collectors' market, making them sought-after collector's items. Anyone wishing to acquire a Vespa 98 should be prepared for an intensive search for suitable offers and, above all, thorough research, as the market is characterised by rare spare parts and sometimes complex restoration work. However, specialised dealers, specialist workshops and clubs can provide valuable support when it comes to sourcing parts and reconditioning. Where do you look for this vehicle?

• At your trusted Vespa dealer

• Classified adverts in the local newspaper

• Markets and trade fairs such as Mostra Scambio in Italy

• Online marketplaces such as www.mobile.de, www.autoscout24.de etc.

Situation used Vespa 98 market

In addition to its innovative design and trend-setting technology, the unmistakable riding experience was the main reason for the success of the Vespa 98. Early on, some doubted the suitability of such a compact scooter for everyday use, but Piaggio impressed with a design that not only impressed with its simplicity and ease of maintenance, but also with its astonishing robustness. Typical of the Vespa 98 is the lack of a central stand, which is familiar from later models. Instead, the scooter rested on small outriggers that could be folded out on either side of the rear Footboards. This charming and historic feature emphasises the pioneering character of the V.98 and makes it a coveted veteran among Vespa enthusiasts to this day.

The colours of the Vespa 98:

Colour	Colour Name	Max Meyer Code	Colour info
	Grigio Metallizato	8000M	1946-1947
	Grigio	8003M	1946
	Rosso Opaco	10055	Rust protection/primer

Sources