VS
The 1982 Yamaha XV920 Virago and 1948 Harley-Davidson FL Panhead both compete in the cruiser segment, offering riders distinct interpretations of the formula.
The 1982 Yamaha XV920 Virago from Japan was powered by a 920cc OHV V-twin producing 70hp at 7500rpm. Weighing 223.0kg (492 lbs) and with a seat height of 750mm, it was aimed at cruiser riders.
The 1948 Harley-Davidson FL Panhead, hailing from United States, by contrast offered 1207cc of OHV V-twin Panhead power, delivering 50hp at 5000rpm. Tipping the scales at 255.0kg (562 lbs) with a top speed of 155km/h (96 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1980s motorcycles are the rising stars of the collector market. Early sportbikes and final-generation air-cooled models are gaining strong interest.
The 1982 Yamaha XV920 Virago from Japan was powered by a 920cc OHV V-twin producing 70hp at 7500rpm. Weighing 223.0kg (492 lbs) and with a seat height of 750mm, it was aimed at cruiser riders.
The 1948 Harley-Davidson FL Panhead, hailing from United States, by contrast offered 1207cc of OHV V-twin Panhead power, delivering 50hp at 5000rpm. Tipping the scales at 255.0kg (562 lbs) with a top speed of 155km/h (96 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1980s motorcycles are the rising stars of the collector market. Early sportbikes and final-generation air-cooled models are gaining strong interest.
Specifications Comparison
| 1982 Yamaha XV920 Virago | 1948 Harley-Davidson FL Panhead | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 920 cc | 1207 cc |
| Power | 70 hp | 50 hp |
| Torque | 72.0 Nm | 85.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 180 km/h | 155 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 223.0 kg | 255.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 242.0 kg | 275.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 750 mm | 690 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1520 mm | 1510 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 14.0 L | 15.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 4 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure cruiser performance, the 1982 Yamaha XV920 Virago has the edge thanks to more power (70hp vs 50hp) and a higher top speed and lower weight. The 1948 Harley-Davidson FL Panhead, however, excels when relaxed highway cruising and long-distance comfort is the priority. For collectors, the 1948 Harley-Davidson FL Panhead commands more attention with a 9/10 collectibility rating.
About the 1982 Yamaha XV920 Virago
Born in 1982, the 1982 Yamaha XV920 Virago is a 920cc twin-cylinder cruiser producing 70hp from Yamaha.
Full 1982 Yamaha XV920 Virago Profile →About the 1948 Harley-Davidson FL Panhead
The 1948 1948 Harley-Davidson FL Panhead is a 1207cc twin-cylinder cruiser that became one of Harley-Davidson's most memorable motorcycles of the 1940s.
Full 1948 Harley-Davidson FL Panhead Profile →