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Although not as flashy as modern scooters, vintage Vespas still hold a special appeal with their classic beauty, simplicity, and touch of sophistication. The trend of embracing vintage Vespas has garnered the attention of many enthusiasts.

Impressive Vintage Scooters

The Vespa Day 2022 event, which took place in Hanoi on April 24, showcased a range of vintage Vespas, including several rare models that captivated the audience.

One of the most eye-catching models was the A.C.M.A, produced in 1954. In Vietnam, it is commonly referred to by this name due to the A.C.M.A logo on the scooter. As one of the oldest vintage Vespas in Vietnam, it was the first model to be imported into the country.

The Vespa VB1, manufactured in 1957, was only available for sale by Piaggio for a two-year period (1957-1958), making it one of the rarest models. Collectors around the world are actively seeking out this model to add to their collections. Similarly, the Vespa Standard VBB2, produced in 1960, was part of a series produced by Piaggio from 1958 to 1967.

The Vespa Sprint 09 Autolube, produced in 1965, is a unique version of the Sprint series with an engine number 09. It is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful models from Piaggio. The Vespa Rally 180cc, introduced in 1970, drew inspiration from the Vespa Sprint 1966 and introduced several aesthetic changes to the handlebars, storage compartments, and seat of the scooter.

The Vespa Rally 180 is considered as one of the most functional and visually pleasing scooters. It was produced from 1968 to 1973, with a total of 26,000 units manufactured.

The term “Vespa,” which means “wasp” in Italian, was first coined by Piaggio in 1946. However, it wasn’t until 1953 that Vespas made their appearance in Vietnam. During that era, Vespas symbolized a status symbol for the middle and upper class. Some Vespas had a value equivalent to half the price of a street-front house in Saigon.

It was a common sight to see well-dressed men and stylish women riding Vespas on the streets.

In recent years, the trend of embracing vintage Vespas has gained popularity among various age groups, especially the younger generation. While they may not possess the flashiness of modern scooters, vintage Vespas still possess their own unique charm. The classic beauty of these scooters adds to their allure. With their distinctive and meticulously crafted designs, coupled with a variety of available models, vintage Vespas have left an indelible mark on enthusiasts.

One aspect that fascinates many riders is the distinctive sound of a Vespa’s engine. It is akin to a person’s voice and needs to be warm and melodious to be truly perfect, as stated by Hoang Anh, a Vespa enthusiast in Hanoi.

A Passion

Vintage Vespa enthusiasts invest a significant amount of their time and effort into their hobby. They actively search for unique accessories to imbue their scooters with individuality and artistic value. This part of the process necessitates meticulous work and an unwavering passion. Each time they find a suitable accessory for their scooter, it becomes an achievement that brings them great excitement.

In addition to the time and effort invested, taking care of vintage Vespa scooters is also a source of joy for enthusiasts. Most vintage Vespas require refurbishment, which may include repairing the frame, restoring its original form, welding, and repainting. The engine also needs regular repairs to ensure consistent performance and maintain its unique sound.

Moreover, owners must possess knowledge about their scooters, such as the right amount of lubricant and the appropriate type of gasoline for smooth operation, as well as understanding when to check the spark plug and how to troubleshoot any issues that may arise.

When everything is in order, it’s time to hit the road with your Vespa. “A hundred words cannot match the captivating sound of a Sprint’s exhaust,” exclaimed an enthusiast, referring to the vintage Vespa Sprint model produced in the 1960s. Sprint conveys the notion of being the “King of Speed” in English, a reflection of the scooter’s powerful engine and maximum speed during its time.

Riding a vintage Vespa down a scenic road, under the blue skies adorned with fluffy white clouds, and feeling the gentle breeze evokes a sense of romance and freedom. The classic beauty, complemented by the unmistakable “pach pach pach…” sound, creates an exhilarating experience and showcases the rider’s individuality.

Vintage Vespa clubs have sprouted throughout the country, providing enthusiasts with a platform to share their passion. Many have embarked on journeys across Vietnam and the Indochinese region, leaving a lasting impression on onlookers.

One Vespa model that once beguiled vintage Vespa enthusiasts nationwide was adorned with the most number of signatures. This particular model was produced in 1959 and has remained entirely original despite being 60 years old. During a cross-country trip, it broke the record for collecting signatures from nearly 800 journalists and reporters nationwide. Its estimated value stands at around 1 billion VND.