I have a Hyosung Sense, which is fun for tootling around the neighborhood but would only consider EVER taking it on the streets under emergency situation. (like critical gas shortage or other economic disaster) Hyosung come in a range of prices and mine was only about $1200/$1400 brand new. (it was a gift) Took a while to get used to how it does NOT handle like a motorcycle. If more people rode them, I wouldn't feel so vunerable on one in traffic. For now, it's there for fun or emergency. America is not ready for curb to curb scooter riders (like Europe and Japan). Too bad...mine gets incredible mileage.
The 60's Honda 50 scooters had big wheels. Rode almost the same as a motorcycle. The Vespas and the modern scooters mostly (afaik) have the small wheels, which to a bike rider accustomed to the big wheels, feel uncomfortable and even unsafe.