The 1938 Triumph Speed Twin from United Kingdom was powered by a 498cc OHV twin producing 27hp at 6300rpm. Weighing 168.0kg (370 lbs) and with a seat height of 780mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1963 Triumph Bonneville T120 by contrast offered 649cc of OHV twin power, delivering 46hp at 6500rpm. Tipping the scales at 170.0kg (375 lbs) with a top speed of 180km/h (112 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. Pre-war motorcycles are extremely rare and highly sought after by serious collectors, with values appreciating steadily year over year.
Specifications Comparison
| 1938 Triumph Speed Twin | 1963 Triumph Bonneville T120 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 498 cc | 649 cc |
| Power | 27 hp | 46 hp |
| Torque | 36.0 Nm | 52.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 148 km/h | 180 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 168.0 kg | 170.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 180.0 kg | 184.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 780 mm | 790 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1370 mm | 1400 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 14.0 L | 14.0 L |
| Gears | 4 -speed | 4 -speed |
The Verdict
Comparing these two Triumph machines reveals the brand's evolution. The 1938 Triumph Speed Twin laid the groundwork with 27hp, while the later 1963 Triumph Bonneville T120 pushed output to 46hp. From a collector's perspective, the 1938 Triumph Speed Twin holds the edge with a 9/10 rating. Either way, both are worthy additions to any Triumph collection. Parts availability is moderate for the 1938 Triumph Speed Twin and good for the 1963 Triumph Bonneville T120 — an important factor for any restoration project.
About the 1938 Triumph Speed Twin
The 1938 1938 Triumph Speed Twin packs a 498cc OHV twin engine with 27hp into a standard motorcycle package from Triumph.
Full 1938 Triumph Speed Twin Profile →About the 1963 Triumph Bonneville T120
The 1963 1963 Triumph Bonneville T120 packs a 649cc OHV twin engine with 46hp into a standard motorcycle package from Triumph.
Full 1963 Triumph Bonneville T120 Profile →