Engineered by Vespa for the scooter motorcycle segment, the 2012 Vespa GTV 300 relies on a 278 cc (17 cu in) air-cooled single cylinder, four-stroke powerplant. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 21.2 HP (15.5 kW) at 7,500 rpm while maximum torque reaches 22.3 Nm (16.4 lb-ft) at 5,000 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through a automatic gearbox and belt final drive. With a specific output of 76.3 HP per liter and a 2,500 rpm working window between peak torque (5,000 rpm) and peak power (7,500 rpm), the engine character is indicating a tractable, stress-free state of tune focused on everyday usability and broad torque delivery.
On the scales, the GTV 300 measures 148 kg (326 lbs) dry, translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.14 HP/kg (6.98 kg per horsepower). Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 790 mm (31.1 in) seat height — offering a neutral standover height that accommodates most average-inseam riders without sacrificing cornering clearance, combined with a 1,394 mm (54.9 in) wheelbase engineered for quick, flickable steering geometry. The 9-liter (2.4 US gal) fuel tank paired with a rated consumption of 3.48 L/100 km provides an estimated theoretical range of roughly 259 km (161 miles) between fill-ups.
Within MotoLibrary's Vespa archive, this model family spans 5 indexed model years from 2011 to 2025, allowing buyers to track year-over-year changes in emissions tuning, weight and equipment.
Specific Output
76.3 HP/L
Power-to-Weight
0.14 HP/kg (6.98 kg/HP)
Power Band Window
5,000–7,500 rpm
Theoretical Range
~259 km (161 mi)
Engine
Displacement278.0 ccm (16.96 cubic inches)
Engine TypeSingle cylinder, four-stroke
Engine DetailsSingle cylinder, four-stroke
Power21.2 HP (15.5 kW)) @ 7500 RPM
Torque22.3 Nm (2.3 kgf-m or 16.4 ft.lbs) @ 5000 RPM
Bore x Stroke75.0 x 63.0 mm (3.0 x 2.5 inches)
Valves/Cylinder4
Fuel SystemInjection. Port injected Alfa/N type with closed loop lambda
Fuel ControlSingle Overhead Cams (SOHC)
LubricationWet sump, chain-driven lobe pump
CoolingAir
Transmission
GearboxAutomatic
Final DriveBelt (final drive)
ClutchAutomatic dry centrifuge with damper
DrivelineAutomatic CVT with torque server
Performance
Fuel Consumption3.48 litres/100 km (28.7 km/l or 67.59 mpg)
Greenhouse Gases80.7 CO2 g/km. (CO2 - Carbon dioxide emission)
Emission DetailsEPA and CARB
Chassis
Frame TypeLoad-bearing sheet steel chassis
Front SuspensionSingle arm, dual-chamber hydraulic shock absorber
Rear SuspensionHelical spring with adjustable 4-position pre-load
Wheelbase1394 mm (54.9 inches)
Wheels & Brakes
Front Tyre120/70-12
Rear Tyre130/70-12
Front BrakesSingle disc
Front Brake Ø200 mm (7.9 inches)
Rear BrakesSingle disc
Rear Brake Ø200 mm (7.9 inches)
Dimensions & Weight
Dry Weight148.0 kg (326.3 pounds)
Power/Weight0.1432 HP/kg
Seat Height790 mm (31.1 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Use this page to compare this motorcycle by its real specifications, not only by model name. Focus on the details that affect fit, comfort, handling, range and ownership.
Power
Compare engine output with similar motorcycles if acceleration, highway use or two-up riding matters.
Torque
Torque is useful for judging real-world pull, especially for touring, commuting and loaded riding.
Seat Height
Check the seat height against your inseam and riding posture before choosing a motorcycle.
Weight
Compare weight carefully because it affects low-speed handling, parking and confidence.
Fuel Capacity
Fuel capacity helps estimate touring range and how often you may need to stop.
Brakes
Brake setup is worth comparing if you ride in traffic, mountains or with a passenger.
Suspension
Suspension details can matter for comfort, road feel and long-distance riding.
Transmission
Transmission and final drive affect maintenance, smoothness and everyday usability.
