The 1972 Honda SL350 from Japan was powered by a 325cc SOHC twin producing 33hp at 9500rpm. Weighing 149.0kg (328 lbs) and with a seat height of 830mm, it was aimed at enduro riders.
The 1966 MV Agusta 350 Three, hailing from Italy, by contrast offered 349cc of DOHC triple power, delivering 42hp at 10000rpm. Tipping the scales at 152.0kg (335 lbs) with a top speed of 185km/h (115 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
| 1972 Honda SL350 | 1966 MV Agusta 350 Three | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 325 cc | 349 cc |
| Power | 33 hp | 42 hp |
| Torque | 27.0 Nm | 28.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 3 |
| Top Speed | 140 km/h | 185 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 149.0 kg | 152.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 163.0 kg | 164.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 830 mm | 780 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1350 mm | 1360 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 10.5 L | 15.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
These two machines serve fundamentally different purposes. The 1972 Honda SL350 is built for off-road capability and adventure riding, while the 1966 MV Agusta 350 Three targets aggressive cornering and track-day performance. On paper, the 1966 MV Agusta 350 Three's 42hp trumps the 1972 Honda SL350's 33hp, but raw numbers don't tell the whole story in such different segments. Choose the 1972 Honda SL350 if you value off-road capability and adventure riding; pick the 1966 MV Agusta 350 Three for aggressive cornering and track-day performance. Parts availability is moderate for the 1972 Honda SL350 and very difficult for the 1966 MV Agusta 350 Three — an important factor for any restoration project.
About the 1972 Honda SL350
The 1972 1972 Honda SL350 is a 325cc twin-cylinder dual-sport that became one of Honda's most memorable motorcycles of the 1970s.
Full 1972 Honda SL350 Profile →About the 1966 MV Agusta 350 Three
A sport bike from 1966, the 1966 MV Agusta 350 Three delivers 42hp from its 349cc DOHC triple engine.
Full 1966 MV Agusta 350 Three Profile →