VS
The 1940 Indian Four and 1947 Indian Bonneville 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 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 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 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 Four | 1947 Indian Bonneville | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1265 cc | 1200 cc |
| Power | 40 hp | 40 hp |
| Torque | 72.0 Nm | 70.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 145 km/h | 140 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 255.0 kg | 248.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 275.0 kg | 268.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 680 mm | 670 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1520 mm | 1500 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 15.0 L | 13.0 L |
| Gears | 3 -speed | 3 -speed |
The Verdict
Comparing these two Indian machines reveals the brand's evolution. The 1940 Indian Four laid the groundwork with 40hp, while the later 1947 Indian Bonneville pushed output to 40hp. 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 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 →