VS
The 1940 Indian Chief and 1947 Indian Bonneville 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 1947 Indian Bonneville by contrast offered 1200cc of SV V-twin power, delivering 40hp at 4800rpm. Tipping the scales at 248.0kg (547 lbs) with a top speed of 140km/h (87 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 1947 Indian Bonneville by contrast offered 1200cc of SV V-twin power, delivering 40hp at 4800rpm. Tipping the scales at 248.0kg (547 lbs) with a top speed of 140km/h (87 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 | 1947 Indian Bonneville | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1200 cc | 1200 cc |
| Power | 40 hp | 40 hp |
| Torque | 70.0 Nm | 70.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 140 km/h | 140 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 250.0 kg | 248.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 270.0 kg | 268.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 670 mm | 670 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1500 mm | 1500 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 13.0 L | 13.0 L |
| Gears | 3 -speed | 3 -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 1947 Indian Bonneville pushed output to 40hp. 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 1947 Indian Bonneville — 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 1947 Indian Bonneville
Indian released the 1947 Indian Bonneville in 1947 with a 1200cc SV V-twin powerplant making 40hp — a definitive standard motorcycle.
Full 1947 Indian Bonneville Profile →