The 1947 Norton International from United Kingdom was powered by a 490cc OHV single producing 29hp at 6000rpm. Weighing 155.0kg (342 lbs) and with a seat height of 780mm, it was aimed at racing riders.
The 1940 Indian Four, hailing from United States, by contrast offered 1265cc of IOE inline-4 power, delivering 40hp at 4800rpm. Tipping the scales at 255.0kg (562 lbs) with a top speed of 145km/h (90 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
| 1947 Norton International | 1940 Indian Four | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 490 cc | 1265 cc |
| Power | 29 hp | 40 hp |
| Torque | 35.0 Nm | 72.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 1 | 4 |
| Top Speed | 145 km/h | 145 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 155.0 kg | 255.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 168.0 kg | 275.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 780 mm | 680 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1370 mm | 1520 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 14.0 L | 15.0 L |
| Gears | 4 -speed | 3 -speed |
The Verdict
These two machines serve fundamentally different purposes. The 1947 Norton International is built for outright circuit racing performance, while the 1940 Indian Four targets long-distance touring with passenger comfort. On paper, the 1940 Indian Four's 40hp trumps the 1947 Norton International's 29hp, but raw numbers don't tell the whole story in such different segments. Choose the 1947 Norton International if you value outright circuit racing performance; pick the 1940 Indian Four for long-distance touring with passenger comfort. Parts availability is difficult for the 1947 Norton International and very difficult for the 1940 Indian Four — an important factor for any restoration project.
About the 1947 Norton International
The 1947 1947 Norton International packs a 490cc OHV single engine with 29hp into a racing machine package from Norton.
Full 1947 Norton International Profile →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 →