1947 Vespa 98 vs 2001 BMW C1

Full specifications comparison • 2 motorcycles

Comparing 2 motorcycles
1947 Vespa 98 1947 Vespa 98

Scooter

Engine
Two Stroke, single cylinder
Power
2.4 kW / 3.2 hp
Top Speed
60 km/h / 37 mph
Weight
60 kg / 132 lbs
2001 BMW C1 2001 BMW C1

Scooter

Engine
Single cylinder
Power
N/A
Top Speed
62.1 mph
Weight
407.9 pounds
Full Specifications
General
Year1946 - 47-
ColoursSilver, Metallic Green-
Make ModelVespa 98-
Total Produced36 126 units-
Weights & Capacities
Dry Weight60 kg / 132 lbs185 kg / 407.9 lbs
Fuel Capacity5 L / 1.3 US gal9.00 litres / 2.38 gallons
Performance
Top Speed60 km/h / 37 mph100.0 km/h / 62.1 mph
Max Power2.4 kW / 3.2 hp-
Power-to-Weight Ratio-0.0811 HP/kg
Engine
Displacement (ci)-7.57 cubic inches
Displacement (cc)-124.00 cc
Engine Type-Single cylinder
Stroke-4
Displacement98 cc / 6 cub in-
Engine DetailTwo Stroke, single cylinder-
Bore x Stroke50 x 50 mm-
CarburetorDell'Orto T2 16/17-
Cooling SystemAir cooled-
Fuel Consumption (Claimed)2.0 L/100 km / 50 km/l / 118 US mpg-
IgnitionVolcano magneto-
StarterKick start-
EV Specifics
Battery Capacity6V-
Drivetrain
Final DriveDirect drive-
Transmission / DriveContinuous speed variator gearbox-
Chassis
Frame TypePressed sheet steel with streamlined monocoque structure-
Suspension - FrontElastic with spiral steel springs-
Suspension - RearRubber buffers-
Wheels & Brakes
Brakes - FrontDrum-
Brakes - RearDrum-
Tyres - Front3.5 x 8"-
Tyres - Rear3.5 x 8"-
WheelsPressed steel flanges, interchangeable, split rims-

Verdict

Winner on specs

1947 Vespa 98

The 1947 Vespa 98 edges out the 2001 BMW C1 thanks to its lighter kerb weight. Specifications are one part of the picture - dealer support, parts availability, and intended use all matter too.

Key Differences

1947 Vespa 98 - Advantages

  • Lighter: 60 kg vs 185 kg - easier to handle and less fatiguing on long trips.

2001 BMW C1 - Advantages

  • Competitive all-round: The 2001 BMW C1 matches or exceeds its rival across all measured criteria.

1947 Vespa 98 vs 2001 BMW C1 - FAQs

What are the engine differences between the 1947 Vespa 98 and 2001 BMW C1?
The 1947 Vespa 98 uses Two Stroke, single cylinder, while the 2001 BMW C1 is powered by Single cylinder.
Which is lighter, the 1947 Vespa 98 or the 2001 BMW C1?
The 1947 Vespa 98 is lighter at 60 kg compared to 185 kg for the 2001 BMW C1 - a difference of 125 kg. This is a meaningful difference that affects handling and rider fatigue.
Which should I buy, the 1947 Vespa 98 or the 2001 BMW C1?
Both are strong choices. The 1947 Vespa 98 has the edge in lighter kerb weight, while the 2001 BMW C1 offers a compelling alternative. Visit dealers, arrange test rides, and factor in local parts and service costs - these often matter as much as the spec sheet.