Two things 1) if it's been out of use, it may just need oiling and use to loosen everything up and 2) some older machines like you to give the flywheel a little turn to start them. My 1940s Necchi does, my 1956 301 doesn't and the 1973 Elna only does if I'm sewing something like leather. I don't know what you've been sewing on, but it's not a big deal to pop your hand up and pull the wheel (or push, a few go the other way).
edit:The Necchi's knee control was very stiff until I sprayed it with WD-40. Do not use WD-40 on the machine and only on the foot petal as a last resort.