| MODEL | VESPA 98 1946 - 1947 |
| Year | 1946 - 1947 |
| Engine Type | Two stroke, single cylinder |
| Displacement / Capacity | 98 cc / 6 cu in |
| Bore X Stroke | 50 x 50 mm |
| Compression Ratio | — |
| Cooling System | Air cooled |
| Max Power | 2.4 kW / 3.2 hp |
| Max Torque | — |
| Ignition | Volcano magneto |
| Induction | — |
| Start System | Kick start |
| TRANSMISSION SPECS | |
| Lubrication | — |
| Gear Box | 3 speed |
| Clutch | — |
| Final Drive | Direct drive |
| CHASSIS SPECS | |
| Frame | Pressed sheet steel with streamlined monocoque structure |
| Front Suspension | Elastic with spiral steel springs |
| Rear Suspension | Rubber buffers |
| Front Brakes | Drum |
| Rear Brakes | Drum |
| DIMENSION SPECS | |
| Overall Length | — |
| Overall Width | — |
| Overall Height | — |
| Seat Height | — |
| Wheelbase | — |
| Ground Clearance | — |
| Dry Weight | 60 kg / 132 lbs |
| Wet Weight | — |
| WHEEL SPECS | |
| Front Tyre | 3.5 x 8 in |
| Rear Tyre | 3.5 x 8 in |
| FUEL SYSTEM | |
| Fuel Capacity | 5 Litres / 1.3 US gal |
| Fuel Consumption | 2.0 L/100 km / 50 km/l / 118 US mpg |
| Top Speed | 60 km/h / 37 mph |
The original Vespa, unveiled in Rome in April 1946, built by Piaggio from Corradino D'Ascanio's design. It had a 98 cc two-stroke engine, a pressed-steel monocoque body and a rear-hung motor driving the wheel directly. Demand far outstripped supply, with buyers waiting months, and the model went through four series before the 125 took over.
