VS
The 1940 Indian Chief and 1944 Indian 841 represent two chapters in Indian's storied history.
The 1940 Indian Chief from United States was powered by a 1200cc SV V-twin producing 40hp at 4800rpm. Weighing 250.0kg (551 lbs) and with a seat height of 670mm, it was aimed at cruiser riders.
The 1944 Indian 841 by contrast offered 745cc of SV V-twin transverse power, delivering 25hp at 4800rpm. Tipping the scales at 225.0kg (496 lbs) with a top speed of 115km/h (71 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1940s motorcycles, especially military-era models, hold strong collector interest with values reflecting their historical significance.
The 1940 Indian Chief from United States was powered by a 1200cc SV V-twin producing 40hp at 4800rpm. Weighing 250.0kg (551 lbs) and with a seat height of 670mm, it was aimed at cruiser riders.
The 1944 Indian 841 by contrast offered 745cc of SV V-twin transverse power, delivering 25hp at 4800rpm. Tipping the scales at 225.0kg (496 lbs) with a top speed of 115km/h (71 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1940s motorcycles, especially military-era models, hold strong collector interest with values reflecting their historical significance.
Specifications Comparison
| 1940 Indian Chief | 1944 Indian 841 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1200 cc | 745 cc |
| Power | 40 hp | 25 hp |
| Torque | 70.0 Nm | 42.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 140 km/h | 115 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 250.0 kg | 225.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 270.0 kg | 242.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 670 mm | 720 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1500 mm | 1460 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 13.0 L | 13.0 L |
| Gears | 3 -speed | 4 -speed |
The Verdict
Comparing these two Indian machines reveals the brand's evolution. The 1940 Indian Chief laid the groundwork with 40hp, while the later 1944 Indian 841 pushed output to 25hp. From a collector's perspective, the 1940 Indian Chief holds the edge with a 9/10 rating. Either way, both are worthy additions to any Indian collection. Parts availability is difficult for the 1940 Indian Chief and very difficult for the 1944 Indian 841 — an important factor for any restoration project.
About the 1940 Indian Chief
The 1940 1940 Indian Chief packs a 1200cc SV V-twin engine with 40hp into a cruiser package from Indian.
Full 1940 Indian Chief Profile →About the 1944 Indian 841
The 1944 1944 Indian 841 is a 745cc twin-cylinder standard motorcycle that became one of Indian's most memorable motorcycles of the 1940s.
Full 1944 Indian 841 Profile →