VS
The 1942 Harley-Davidson WLA and 1947 Indian Bonneville are both iconic 1940s standards that defined their respective markets.
The 1942 Harley-Davidson WLA from United States was powered by a 739cc SV V-twin producing 23hp at 4600rpm. Weighing 260.0kg (573 lbs) and with a seat height of 680mm, it was aimed at standard 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 1942 Harley-Davidson WLA from United States was powered by a 739cc SV V-twin producing 23hp at 4600rpm. Weighing 260.0kg (573 lbs) and with a seat height of 680mm, it was aimed at standard 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
| 1942 Harley-Davidson WLA | 1947 Indian Bonneville | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 739 cc | 1200 cc |
| Power | 23 hp | 40 hp |
| Torque | 40.0 Nm | 70.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 105 km/h | 140 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 260.0 kg | 248.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 280.0 kg | 268.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 680 mm | 670 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1470 mm | 1500 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 13.0 L | 13.0 L |
| Gears | 3 -speed | 3 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure standard performance, the 1947 Indian Bonneville has the edge thanks to more power (40hp vs 23hp) and a higher top speed and lower weight. The 1942 Harley-Davidson WLA, however, excels when all-round versatility and everyday riding is the priority. Parts availability is moderate for the 1942 Harley-Davidson WLA and very difficult for the 1947 Indian Bonneville — an important factor for any restoration project.
About the 1942 Harley-Davidson WLA
The 1942 1942 Harley-Davidson WLA is a 739cc twin-cylinder standard motorcycle that became one of Harley-Davidson's most memorable motorcycles of the 1940s.
Full 1942 Harley-Davidson WLA 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 →