Vespa holds most retail value – from NYT

Vespa scooters outperform most vehicles in resale value, retaining an impressive 72.1% of their original price after three years compared to the 55.7% average for cars. Models like the Vespa Sprint 150 and GTS 300 stand out with a 79% retention rate, surpassing leading vehicles like the Dodge Heavy Duty Ram 3500 (75%) and the Porsche 911 (58.7%). This exceptional value is attributed to Vespa's unique design, upscale branding, and a loyal cultural following.

Vespa's iconic design remains largely unchanged since its 1946 debut, with durable metal construction and a monocoque frame that enhances its lightweight, rigid ride. Unlike competitors who rely on plastic and lack Vespa's fit and finish, the brand's aesthetic and build quality elevate it above others. While repair costs for damaged Vespas can be higher, their minimal depreciation offsets these expenses, making them a smart investment.

Vespa's cultural cachet is unparalleled, tied to its appearances in films like Roman Holiday and its association with the British mod movement. This history, combined with its luxury reputation, allows Vespa to command higher prices even as less expensive alternatives from Honda, Yamaha, and Chinese brands flood the market. The scooters remain a status symbol, with used models often holding their value better than brand-new budget scooters.

See original New York Times Article

Kelley Blue Book data, featured in Powersports Business on December 24, 2018, highlights the exceptional resale value of Vespa scooters. Among the top 10 two-year-old scooter models, seven are 2016 Vespa models, each retaining over 80% of their original value. This strong performance further demonstrates Vespa's market dominance in holding value over time, including for models five and ten years old.