Introduction

The Aprilia Area 51 50 (1998-2000, ZD4MY)

is a scooter from the Italian manufacturer Aprilia, launched in 1998. This model stands out for its futuristic design reminiscent of a spaceship and was conceived as a sporty 50 cc scooter aimed at young riders. The Area 51 was introduced as part of Aprilia’s growing scooter production and was designed to impress in urban environments through both looks and technology. It was one of the first models to highlight Aprilia’s ambitions in the sport-oriented small-displacement segment and distinguished itself from the competition with its striking appearance.

Model History

Historically, the Aprilia Area 51 50 belongs to the development line that began with the Amico (1990), Aprilia’s first scooter. Founded in 1945 by Alberto Beggio as a bicycle manufacturer, Aprilia evolved into a motorcycle producer under Ivano Beggio in the 1960s and entered scooter production in the 1980s through a partnership with Minarelli. Following the success of the Amico and its variants like the Amico Sport or GL, Aprilia launched the Area 51 — a model characterized by a more aggressive, technology-focused design. Positioned between the early Amico models and later sporty scooters like the SR 50, the Area 51 showcased Aprilia’s focus on innovation and a youthful target audience in the late 1990s, before the brand was acquired by Piaggio in 2004.

Technical Details

Technically, the Aprilia Area 51 50 (1998–2000, ZD4MY) is equipped with a liquid-cooled 49 cc two-stroke engine delivering around 4 hp (approx. 3 kW). The engine is based on a Minarelli design with a horizontal cylinder and is fueled by a Dell’Orto carburetor. Power is transmitted via a continuously variable transmission (CVT) with a V-belt, enabling easy operation. The top speed is limited to about 45 km/h, in accordance with regulations for 50 cc vehicles. The frame is constructed from tubular steel, with a steering column at the front and an engine swingarm with a shock absorber at the rear. The braking system features disc brakes at both the front and rear, providing strong braking performance for its time. With a dry weight of approximately 90 kg and a fuel tank capacity of 8 liters, the Area 51 was heavier but also had greater range compared to many competitors.

Design and Variants

The Aprilia Area 51 50 (1998–2000, ZD4MY) was available in several colors including silver, black, red, and blue — often combined with striking graphic elements that emphasized its futuristic styling. This range of color options made the scooter visually versatile and appealing to its target audience. Official special editions of the Area 51 are not documented, but the model was continued in 1999 and 2000 in slightly revised versions with minor technical or visual updates. Optional accessories such as windshields or top cases were available to enhance practicality, although the primary focus remained on the sporty standard version.