VS
The 1958 Norton Dominator 99 and 1964 Norton 650SS represent two chapters in Norton's storied history.
The 1958 Norton Dominator 99 from United Kingdom was powered by a 597cc OHV twin producing 31hp at 6000rpm. Weighing 182.0kg (401 lbs) and with a seat height of 790mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1964 Norton 650SS by contrast offered 646cc of OHV twin power, delivering 49hp at 6800rpm. Tipping the scales at 175.0kg (386 lbs) with a top speed of 185km/h (115 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1950s bikes represent the golden age of British motorcycling and early Japanese innovation, with well-maintained examples commanding premium prices.
The 1958 Norton Dominator 99 from United Kingdom was powered by a 597cc OHV twin producing 31hp at 6000rpm. Weighing 182.0kg (401 lbs) and with a seat height of 790mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1964 Norton 650SS by contrast offered 646cc of OHV twin power, delivering 49hp at 6800rpm. Tipping the scales at 175.0kg (386 lbs) with a top speed of 185km/h (115 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1950s bikes represent the golden age of British motorcycling and early Japanese innovation, with well-maintained examples commanding premium prices.
Specifications Comparison
| 1958 Norton Dominator 99 | 1964 Norton 650SS | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 597 cc | 646 cc |
| Power | 31 hp | 49 hp |
| Torque | 40.0 Nm | 52.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 155 km/h | 185 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 182.0 kg | 175.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 195.0 kg | 188.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 790 mm | 790 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1400 mm | 1400 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 14.0 L | 14.0 L |
| Gears | 4 -speed | 4 -speed |
The Verdict
Comparing these two Norton machines reveals the brand's evolution. The 1958 Norton Dominator 99 laid the groundwork with 31hp, while the later 1964 Norton 650SS pushed output to 49hp. From a collector's perspective, the 1964 Norton 650SS holds the edge with a 7/10 rating. Either way, both are worthy additions to any Norton collection.
About the 1958 Norton Dominator 99
Introduced in 1958, the 1958 Norton Dominator 99 features a 597cc OHV twin engine producing 31hp, establishing itself as a notable standard motorcycle.
Full 1958 Norton Dominator 99 Profile →About the 1964 Norton 650SS
The 1964 1964 Norton 650SS is a 646cc twin-cylinder sport bike that became one of Norton's most memorable motorcycles of the 1960s.
Full 1964 Norton 650SS Profile →