Vespa G.S. 150
General Information
The Gran Sport, or “G.S.” 150 was unveiled in 1955, blending style and speed. It was the first sporting scooter to achieve mass market success, opening the door for the many models and makes that followed.
There were several versions of the G.S. 150. They are commonly referred to by the beginning of the frame number. The first G.S.’s frame number began at VS1 in 1955, and the last ended with VS5 in 1961.
The G.S. represented a substantial upgrade from the truly utilitarian Vespas which preceded it. In the U.S., VS4s and VS5s are the most commonly found. VS1 and VS2 were not originally sold in the U.S. in significant numbers.
Style
The styling of the G.S. is, without doubt, the pinnacle of Piaggio’s scooter design. From the sloped tail to the curved legshields, there is hardly a straight line anywhere on the scooter. Even the floorboards on the G.S. are concave. All G.S. 150’s came only in metallic silver paint.
The handlebars were enclosed and aerodynamically styled. On all models after the VS1, the control cables were totally enclosed in the headset — a style later used on all Vespas after 1958. An integrated ignition switch was another luxury item unique to the G.S. at launch.
Motor
Though based on the Vespa 150 motor, the G.S. was tweaked to increase speed and sporting character. A four-speed gearbox was a first for any Vespa. Raised compression, a domed piston, a 23mm carburetor, and a larger exhaust allowed the G.S. to put out 8 horsepower versus 5.4 from the standard 150 — a major increase for the same displacement. Top speed was around 65 mph.
All G.S. 150’s had a battery-assisted spark system that requires a functional battery to run. Previously out of production, the original-style battery is now being reproduced.
Bottom Line
Although the G.S. is the quintessential Vespa in design terms, there are not as many on the road as one might expect. Many broke down because owners didn’t realize the motor required a 6% two-stroke oil mixture. Others were sidelined when the battery died and a new owner didn’t know the ignition required it.
As with all pre-60’s Vespas, it is important to find a G.S. that is complete. Body parts are quite hard to come by, especially in the U.S. Unless you are an experienced scooterist, shy away from a “project” G.S. — the cost of restoring one can quickly exceed buying one already in good condition.
Nevertheless, as the owner of a G.S. 150 VS5, I can truly say this scooter is a delight to drive. Very quick, handles beautifully, and still looks fresh 50+ years on.
Numbers & Specs
- Years Produced: 1955–1961
- Number Produced: 126,349
- Power Output: 8 hp
Approximate Values
- Rough but restorable: $800–1,500
- Drivable, but not show: $2,500–3,500
- Restored or excellent original: $4,000–8,000
Note: Values above are for VS4–5. Pre-VS4 G.S.’s are very rare and command a premium.