Piaggio unveils the Vespa 46

by Modculture 11 November, 2011

Vespa46_1

I know the purists will hate it, but this Vespa 46, which will be available from next year from Piaggio, is certainly a talking point.


The scooter is based on the company’s MP6 prototype, which was originally released in 1946. The shape that is, as the rest of this scooter is very much of the modern era.

Apparently, the motor is an emissions-friendly, air-cooled, fuel-injected three-valve four-stroke affair, in a choice of 125cc or 150cc. There’s also plenty of technology and high-end finishing thrown in too, like wing-shaped LED turn signals, ergonomic grips in hand-stitched leather and an LED taillight on the engine cover for example.

Some of that will be in the finished product, which has yet to be priced. Expect it not to be cheap. Then again, where you really thinking about buying one? I’m guessing not.

Vespa website

Vespa46_2

Vespa46_3

Images via High Snobiety

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10 Comments Category: Scootering, Wheels
  • Steve

    I don’t actually hate this. The only deal breaker would be an automatic transmission.

  • Col

    Hate to say it but that looks quite nice.
    Certainly the best of all those autos.
    I’ll be sticking with the real deal though.

  • Steve

    I don’t get you lot – modernists? This is a beautiful modern design – if they did it in a larger CC I would love one (though I may need to remortgage). Not sure about the colour but the design is superb.
    Mods eveolve and take on new styles of music, hair and clothing – why are they so reticent when it comes to scooters?
    I’ve owned so many scooters over the last 20 odd years I’ve lost count but by far the best – without a shadow of doubt – was the GTS250ie.

  • Pigeon Faced Mod

    Who wrote this review?, can’t find a name.
    Anyway you’re so wrong!, would by this in a heartbeat!.

  • Ian

    I agree with Steve and PFM, this is beautiful. Sleek and modern while still managing to acknowledge it’s heritage.

  • Hughgenoccas

    An evolution in design and I believe it is very successful. I hope that it carries on into the production, larger frame models. 
    Getting bored by the ‘it has to be old / manual to be a real Vespa’ attitude…it is all a bit trainspotter, don’t you think?

  • DJ Premier Cru

    I like it too.   I have been riding “classic” scooters since 1983.  This is the best “modern” bike ever.  Definitely, an evolutionary design.  Yes, I would like more cc’s as well.  The seat may have to grow on me, but otherwise – Well done!

  • Djmikemckenna

    deffo buying one!  i commute on a honda joker scooter and ride my px at weekends… this will be perfect to get to work on in style !

  • Brad68

    Agreed – excellent looking scooter.  Some scooterists need to move on and accept that Vespa are churning out some cracking new models.  If they had their way we’d all still be riding Penny Farthings!  Embrace progress guys!

  • Phil

    I really like it! Only thing is, mirrors? Where are they? :O

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