VS
The 1962 MV Agusta 600 Four and 1978 BMW R80/7 both compete in the touring segment, offering riders distinct interpretations of the formula.
The 1962 MV Agusta 600 Four from Italy was powered by a 591cc DOHC inline-4 producing 52hp at 8500rpm. Weighing 195.0kg (430 lbs) and with a seat height of 790mm, it was aimed at touring riders.
The 1978 BMW R80/7, hailing from Germany, by contrast offered 798cc of OHV flat-twin power, delivering 50hp at 6500rpm. Tipping the scales at 195.0kg (430 lbs) with a top speed of 175km/h (109 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1960s motorcycles capture the era of cultural revolution and racing heritage. Iconic models from this decade are among the most desirable classics.
The 1962 MV Agusta 600 Four from Italy was powered by a 591cc DOHC inline-4 producing 52hp at 8500rpm. Weighing 195.0kg (430 lbs) and with a seat height of 790mm, it was aimed at touring riders.
The 1978 BMW R80/7, hailing from Germany, by contrast offered 798cc of OHV flat-twin power, delivering 50hp at 6500rpm. Tipping the scales at 195.0kg (430 lbs) with a top speed of 175km/h (109 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1960s motorcycles capture the era of cultural revolution and racing heritage. Iconic models from this decade are among the most desirable classics.
Specifications Comparison
| 1962 MV Agusta 600 Four | 1978 BMW R80/7 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 591 cc | 798 cc |
| Power | 52 hp | 50 hp |
| Torque | 46.0 Nm | 52.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 175 km/h | 175 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 195.0 kg | 195.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 210.0 kg | 210.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 790 mm | 810 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1440 mm | 1440 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 17.0 L | 22.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure touring performance, the 1962 MV Agusta 600 Four has the edge thanks to more power (52hp vs 50hp). The 1978 BMW R80/7, however, excels when long-distance touring with passenger comfort is the priority. For collectors, the 1962 MV Agusta 600 Four commands more attention with a 8/10 collectibility rating. Parts availability is very difficult for the 1962 MV Agusta 600 Four and good for the 1978 BMW R80/7 — an important factor for any restoration project.
About the 1962 MV Agusta 600 Four
MV Agusta released the 1962 MV Agusta 600 Four in 1962 with a 591cc DOHC inline-4 powerplant making 52hp — a definitive touring motorcycle.
Full 1962 MV Agusta 600 Four Profile →About the 1978 BMW R80/7
A touring motorcycle from 1978, the 1978 BMW R80/7 delivers 50hp from its 798cc OHV flat-twin engine.
Full 1978 BMW R80/7 Profile →