The 1974 Yamaha RD200 from Japan was powered by a 195cc 2-stroke twin producing 22hp at 7500rpm. Weighing 123.0kg (271 lbs) and with a seat height of 770mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1956 MV Agusta 175 CSS, hailing from Italy, by contrast offered 174cc of SOHC single power, delivering 17hp at 8500rpm. Tipping the scales at 112.0kg (247 lbs) with a top speed of 140km/h (87 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1970s bikes from the Japanese superbike revolution are increasingly sought after. Clean, original examples have seen significant value appreciation.
Specifications Comparison
| 1974 Yamaha RD200 | 1956 MV Agusta 175 CSS | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 195 cc | 174 cc |
| Power | 22 hp | 17 hp |
| Torque | 17.0 Nm | 13.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 1 |
| Top Speed | 130 km/h | 140 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 123.0 kg | 112.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 135.0 kg | 122.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 770 mm | 760 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1260 mm | 1280 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 11.0 L | 12.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 4 -speed |
The Verdict
These two machines serve fundamentally different purposes. The 1974 Yamaha RD200 is built for all-round versatility and everyday riding, while the 1956 MV Agusta 175 CSS targets outright circuit racing performance. On paper, the 1974 Yamaha RD200's 22hp trumps the 1956 MV Agusta 175 CSS's 17hp, but raw numbers don't tell the whole story in such different segments. Choose the 1974 Yamaha RD200 if you value all-round versatility and everyday riding; pick the 1956 MV Agusta 175 CSS for outright circuit racing performance. Parts availability is moderate for the 1974 Yamaha RD200 and very difficult for the 1956 MV Agusta 175 CSS — an important factor for any restoration project.
About the 1974 Yamaha RD200
A standard motorcycle from 1974, the 1974 Yamaha RD200 delivers 22hp from its 195cc 2-stroke twin engine.
Full 1974 Yamaha RD200 Profile →About the 1956 MV Agusta 175 CSS
Introduced in 1956, the 1956 MV Agusta 175 CSS features a 174cc SOHC single engine producing 17hp, establishing itself as a notable racing machine.
Full 1956 MV Agusta 175 CSS Profile →