2004 Vespa GranTurismo Review

With a manufacturer's suggested retail price of $4,899, the 2004 Vespa Granturismo was one of the higher-end scooters that Italian automaker Piaggio released during the 2000s via its subsidiary Vespa. Also abbreviated as the 2004 Vespa GT, the scooter was named for its designation as a durable and powerful vehicle.

Although some model years would receive different versions to choose from, the 2004 Vespa Granturismo is not one of them. Only one version is available; it is officially known as the 2004 Vespa Granturismo 200, with the number standing for its engine displacement (198 cubic centimeters, rounded up to 200). The engine itself, a four-stroke liquid-cooled single-cylinder, generates 21 horsepower at 8500 rpm and 13 lb-ft of torque at 6500 rpm. Its bore and stroke are measured at 2.83 by 1.91 inches (72 by 49 millimeters), and its compression ratio is 12 to 1. Adhering to a single overhead camshaft valve train, each engine on the 2004 Vespa GT has four intake valves on the cylinder. A 30-millimeter Keihin carburetor blends air and fuel for the engine, while an electric starter provides convenience for the rider in starting the scooter.

Each 2004 Vespa Granturismo engine is mated to a Continuously Variable Transmission, or CVT. Designed as an automatic gearbox, the CVT shifts through an unlimited number of gears for more effective engine operation, resulting in enhanced fuel economy. Moreover, the Vespa GT gets considerable driving range with its 2.5-gallon (10-liter) gas tank.

Relying on a steel frame construction for sturdiness, the 2004 Vespa Granturismo has front and rear fenders, fork guard, and side cover. The scooter is available in three color finishes: Black, Steel Gray, or Vintage Green. Its digital instrumentation consists of a clock, speedometer, service reminder indicator, and temperature and fuel level warning gauges. For security and protection, the 2004 Vespa GT gets an engine immobilizer and a power outlet is provided for charging mobile devices like smartphones. For storage, Piaggio provides a rear rack--as well as under-seat, lockable and helmet storage. A halogen headlight and a pair of side mirrors are in place for increasing the rider's viewing ability. Each Vespa GT rides on a pair of 12-inch aluminum wheels.

Most scooters from 2004 use all-wheel drum brakes or a front-disc-brake/rear-drum-brake layout. However, the 2004 Vespa Granturismo surpass the aforementioned set-ups with an 8.7-inch (220-mm) disc brake on both the front and rear wheels; all-wheel disc brakes provide superior braking prowess. Each Vespa GT uses a suspension consisting of a tie rod at the front and steel twin-sided swing arm at the back for terrific absorption of bumps.

Each 2004 Vespa Granturismo has a length of 76.4 inches, a width of 29.7 inches, and a wheelbase of 54.9 inches. The seat height is set at 31.5 inches. Overall the Vespa GT weighs 308 pounds.

In 2004, the Vespa Granturismo was arguably the top-of-the-line scooter from Piaggio's Vespa imprint. It provides a powerful engine; great durability and fuel economy; and a handsome list of features, some of which are not found on many scooters for the 2004 model year.