Vespa celebrates 75th anniversary in style

Italy has produced its fair share of iconic motor vehicles.

But there is only one that has fused together form and function in such a way that it appeals to royalty as much as riff raff.

There is only one that has truly democratised personal mobility to the point where it has been a beacon for beatniks, a fashion statement for celebrities and a star of the silver screen in its own right.

And, yet, at the same time it has been a utilitarian tool for millions of everyday folk to quickly and conveniently get from A-to-B.

There is one vehicle that symbolises Italy more than any other. And it’s not a supercar from the likes of Ferrari, Lamborghini or Maserati.

It’s a Vespa, the gorgeously simple and simply gorgeous motor scooter that truly made personal transport affordable and accessible to the masses.

This year Vespa celebrates its 75th anniversary, and the brand is more popular now than it has ever been. Sold in 83 countries across every permanently inhabited continent on the globe, Vespa recently produced its 19th millionth scooter.

Celebrating the milestone, Vespa has released special 75th anniversary editions of its Primavera and flagship GTS models.

Each is painted in an exclusive colour called Giallo Zolfo 75th, an original metallic yellow that takes inspiration from the hues that were fashionable during the 1940s when the first Vespa rolled off the Pontedera production line in Tuscany. The colour evokes the heritage, innovative spirit and fashionable style that Vespa is renowned for.

It is highlighted by a contrasting number 75 painted in a slightly darker shade on the side panels and front mudguard, while the traditional ‘tie’ on the front panel is an opaque pyrite yellow, creating an elegant tone-on-tone effect.

Further enhancing the 75th anniversary models’ premium aesthetic is a vast array of high-quality chrome trim elements, including the outer edge of the leg shield, ornamental vents within the tie, headlight surround, rear-view mirrors, instrument cluster and muffler cover.

The distinctive rear luggage rack is also chrome plated and comes with a round bag that replicates the look of the signature spare wheel fitted to early model Vespas. Matching the saddle, the bag is made from sumptuous nubuck leather in smoke grey and can be removed from the bike via a quick-release mechanism to be used a stylish everyday handbag.

Both 75th anniversary models are equipped with the latest in rider technology, including a 4.3-inch colour TFT display with a fully digital instrument cluster. When linked to the Vespa MIA smartphone app, users have access to navigation with live trip data and, when connected to a Bluetooth headset, can answer phone calls, use voice-activated commands and listen to music or podcasts while on the move.

The 75th anniversary Primavera is powered by a flexible 150cc engine mated to a smooth CVT automatic transmission for fuss-free operation, while the GTS ups the ante with a 300cc single-cylinder engine with a conventional torque converter automatic tuned to seamlessly deliver its additional power for maximum rider comfort. Both models come with the surety of ABS brakes to optimise rider safety in all riding conditions.

Ensuring the 75th anniversary models are considered future collector’s items, owners also receive an exclusive welcome kit that includes a Vespa plate made from vintage steel, a personalised owner’s book and a collection of eight designer postcards that commemorate the eight decades of the Vespa story.

The 75th anniversary Vespa Primavera and GTS models are priced from $9890 and $13,590 driveaway respectively, and are backed by a two-year, unlimited kilometre factory warranty.

As it has done for the last 75 years, Vespa is celebrating this milestone achievement with the sense of style and sassiness that has cemented its status as a pop culture icon and become the purest symbol of Italy’s gargantuan contribution to personal transport.

For more information on the Vespa 75th anniversary models or to book a test ride at your nearest dealer, go to Vespa.com.