VS
The 1940 Indian Four and 1944 Indian 841 represent two chapters in Indian's storied history.
The 1940 Indian Four from United States was powered by a 1265cc IOE inline-4 producing 40hp at 4800rpm. Weighing 255.0kg (562 lbs) and with a seat height of 680mm, it was aimed at touring 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 Four from United States was powered by a 1265cc IOE inline-4 producing 40hp at 4800rpm. Weighing 255.0kg (562 lbs) and with a seat height of 680mm, it was aimed at touring 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 Four | 1944 Indian 841 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1265 cc | 745 cc |
| Power | 40 hp | 25 hp |
| Torque | 72.0 Nm | 42.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 145 km/h | 115 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 255.0 kg | 225.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 275.0 kg | 242.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 680 mm | 720 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1520 mm | 1460 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 15.0 L | 13.0 L |
| Gears | 3 -speed | 4 -speed |
The Verdict
Comparing these two Indian machines reveals the brand's evolution. The 1940 Indian Four laid the groundwork with 40hp, while the later 1944 Indian 841 pushed output to 25hp. From a collector's perspective, the 1940 Indian Four holds the edge with a 10/10 rating. Either way, both are worthy additions to any Indian collection.
About the 1940 Indian Four
Indian released the 1940 Indian Four in 1940 with a 1265cc IOE inline-4 powerplant making 40hp — a definitive touring motorcycle.
Full 1940 Indian Four 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 →