Vespa is the most famous two-wheeled vehicle of the twentieth century and coming from the ashes of postwar Europe to provide safe and reliable transportation for masses, it has become a true lifestyle and design statement. Piaggio, company responsible for this gem, was originally founded in 1884 by Rinaldo Piaggio and concentrated on heavy machines like railway cars and planes. Especially during both World Wars, Piaggio was one of the best manufacturers of planes in Italy. In the 1940s Piaggio was doing great and manufactured all sorts of transportation vehicles from trucks, railway cars and engines to planes and trolleys. However, the loss of World War II meant economic ruin for the country and completely destroyed main plant in Pontedera.
