The Beginning

  The history of motorized scooters begin in the 1800's with the Hildebrand & Wolfmueller, which was patented in Munich, Bavaria in 1894. It had a water-cooled engine and the typical step-through frame, however was not a significant commercial success.  The Vespa was produced in 1946 by D'Ascanio.  The first Vespa had a 98cc engine and a top speed of 47mph. In 1948, the first 125cc Vespa was produced. The steel frame's shape on the Vespa protected the rider from road dirt and debris and the shape emanated sophistication and elegance at first glance.



                         

Hildebrand & Wolfmueller


 
                 First Vespa