Vespa The History of a Legend from Its Origins to the Present

The Vespa is an Italian icon—and here is the official story of the brand since its legendary creation, more than 70 years ago.
 
When it was conceived in 1946, the Vespa was met with skepticism because it was not a motorbike but rather a vehicle born from crossing airplane and automobile technology. Nonetheless, it soon became a success as the first two-wheeled economy vehicle in history, perfect for postwar transportation. It was also a unique design object that would be imitated by many and that was destined to become an icon. The Vespa is not just any scooter—it is THE scooter, known and loved all over the world. A rare example of a motor vehicle that has survived crises and trends, it has always stayed true to its original concept. From Piaggio’s origins to the first prototypes, through a selection of the models that best represent Vespa’s history including races and racing records, movies, excursions, rallies, and the most original artistic and custom models, this book uses compelling facts and images to tell the never-ending story of a piece of Italy that has conquered every continent in the world with nearly 19 million scooters sold.

Valerio Boni’s career in journalism began in 1977 when his passion for motorcycles led him to become a sportscaster for off-road races, then trials, and later, the first African races in Morocco, Egypt, and Tunisia. Subsequently, he began working as a journalist for specialized motorcycle magazines, writing about the launch and test rides of hundreds of new models. For 25 years, he was editor and department chief for Mondadori Magazines where, among other things, he was responsible for the pages dedicated to PTWs (powered two-wheelers). He has authored a series of annuals about the Grand Prix motorcycle races and has published books about the history of the BMW, Ducati, Gilera, Porsche, and the Vespa.

Stefano Cordara earned his degree in mechanical engineering from the Polytechnic University of Milan. In 1992, he began his career as a journalist, working as a specialized test driver in the world of motorcycles, where he turned his unbridled passion into a job. His keen insight as a test driver led him to be personally involved in the development of motorcycle design. For over ten years, he also competed intensely in international motorcycle races including the legendary Suzuka 8 Hours. He is the managing editor of the online publishing project RED Live and continues to write for the Gazzetta dello Sport, the sports newspaper where he collaborated on a series of books dedicated to the Ducati motorcycle.