Vespa 946
The Vespa 946 has a top speed of 105 km/h, produces 12.7 hp and weighs 131 kg. Motoryk rates it 7.5/10.
The Vespa 946 was introduced in 2013 as a premium, heritage-inspired scooter celebrating the 60th anniversary of Audrey Hepburn's iconic film 'Roman Holiday' and Vespa's storied legacy. Named after the year 1946 when the original Vespa was born, it features hand-finished bodywork and a retro-modern design heavily influenced by the classic MP6 prototype. It is notable for being one of the most luxurious and meticulously crafted production scooters ever made, positioned as a collector's piece rather than a standard commuter.
12.7 hp
Power
12.8 Nm
Torque
131 kg
Weight
105 km/h
Top Speed
2.9 L/100km (approximately 34 km/L, estimated real-world average)
Fuel
Faired
Body
Video Review
What Buyers Should Know
Strong Resale Value
The Vespa 946 holds its value exceptionally well due to limited production numbers and collectible status. Well-maintained examples often retain 70-80% of their original value after several years.
Watch the Electronics
The 946's advanced electronics and ABS system can be costly to repair if neglected, so always verify service history. Faulty throttle-by-wire sensors are a known issue on earlier models.
Aluminum Body Advantage
Unlike most modern scooters, the 946 features a hand-crafted steel and aluminum body that resists rust and flexing far better than plastic alternatives. This premium construction directly contributes to its long-term durability and collectibility.
Generations & Specs by Year
Original launch, 125cc and 150cc engines, retro styling inspired by 1946 Vespa prototype.
Introduced 946 Emporio Armani special editions, refined engine mapping, updated color options.
Euro 5 compliant engine updates, 946 Red special edition, connectivity features added.
Used Buyer Review
"A stunning urban sculpture that rewards patient, city-bound riders who prioritize style."
$6,000-$10,000 usedThe 946 is basically wearable art that happens to have an engine. Named after the year Piaggio was founded, it's built to a standard you simply don't see in this segment — aluminum bodywork, proper leather saddle, machined details everywhere. Used examples from early production years had some fuel injection hiccups and the ABS can get temperamental if it's sat unused, so pull the service history before you hand over anything. Dealers treated these like jewelry, so most used examples are genuinely pampered. Riding it is a different conversation entirely. The 125cc engine is whisper-quiet and perfectly adequate for city commuting, but take it on an A-road and you'll be working hard to keep pace with traffic. It's not built for that, and pretending otherwise will just frustrate you. The handling is surprisingly precise for a twist-and-go, and the riding position is genuinely comfortable for shorter urban hops. Just budget for Piaggio main dealer servicing — independent shops often won't touch one.
Top 10 Accessories
Curated picks for the Vespa 946 — owned, ridden, recommended.
Common Problems
🔥 1 CRITICALTest ride for hesitation, scan for fault codes
Check all lights, gauges, and USB port function
Bounce forks, inspect rear shock for leaks
Inspect all chrome trim and painted panel edges
✅Pre-Purchase Checklist
Premium but expensive to fix when things fail
Full Specifications
Rivals & Alternatives
Bikes that buyers cross-shop with the Vespa 946
Vespa 946 Emporio Armani
Piaggio Vespa 946
Piaggio Vespa Gts 300 Hpe
Piaggio Vespa Gts Super 300
Piaggio Vespa Gtv 300
Compare Vespa 946 Side-by-Side
compare_arrowsSpecs, power, weight & buyer verdict — head-to-head with the bikes most often cross-shopped.
Vespa 946 vs Vespa 946 Emporio Armani
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Vespa 946 vs Piaggio Vespa 946
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Vespa 946 vs Piaggio Vespa Gts 300 Hpe
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Vespa 946 vs Piaggio Vespa Gts Super 300
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Vespa 946 vs Piaggio Vespa Gtv 300
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
More Vespa 946 Guides
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View all Vespa models →Community Reviews
Discussion
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common problems with the Vespa 946? +
Fuel injection system errors and stalling: Test ride for hesitation, scan for fault codes (serious) | Electrical gremlins and dashboard malfunctions: Check all lights, gauges, and USB port function (moderate) | Suspension wear and harsh ride: Bounce forks, inspect rear shock for leaks (moderate)
Is the Vespa 946 a good motorcycle? +
A stunning urban sculpture that rewards patient, city-bound riders who prioritize style. Rating: 7.5/10. Best for: Style-conscious urban commuters with deep pockets. Avoid if: You need real performance or touring capability.
What is the horsepower of the Vespa 946? +
The Vespa 946 produces 12.7 hp @ 7,750 rpm, with 12.8 Nm @ 5,000 rpm of torque. Top speed: 105 km/h.
Is the Vespa 946 good for beginners? +
Yes — the Vespa 946 is a reasonable choice for new riders (12.7 hp is manageable), weighing 131 kg. Style-conscious urban commuters with deep pockets
Is the Vespa 946 reliable? +
Owners report 1 critical issue to watch for on the Vespa 946, notably: Fuel injection system errors and stalling (Test ride for hesitation, scan for fault codes). Buy with a pre-purchase inspection.
Is the Vespa 946 good for daily use? +
Style-conscious urban commuters with deep pockets Fuel: 2.9 L/100km (approximately 34 km/L, estimated real-world average).
How fast is the Vespa 946? +
The Vespa 946 reaches a top speed of 105 km/h, producing 12.7 hp at 131 kg curb weight. Real-world performance depends on rider weight, gearing, and road conditions.
What gear should I buy for a Vespa 946? +
Motoryk has curated a Top 10 gear list specifically for the Vespa 946, covering engine oil, tires, chain, battery, and brake pads — see motoryk.com/bikes/vespa/946/top10. Each pick is matched to this bike's spec.
