VS
The 1981 Ducati Pantah 500SL and 1966 MV Agusta 350 Three both compete in the sportbike segment, offering riders distinct interpretations of the formula.
The 1981 Ducati Pantah 500SL from Italy was powered by a 498cc SOHC L-twin belt producing 44hp at 8500rpm. Weighing 168.0kg (370 lbs) and with a seat height of 790mm, it was aimed at sportbike riders.
The 1966 MV Agusta 350 Three 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. 1980s motorcycles are the rising stars of the collector market. Early sportbikes and final-generation air-cooled models are gaining strong interest.
The 1981 Ducati Pantah 500SL from Italy was powered by a 498cc SOHC L-twin belt producing 44hp at 8500rpm. Weighing 168.0kg (370 lbs) and with a seat height of 790mm, it was aimed at sportbike riders.
The 1966 MV Agusta 350 Three 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. 1980s motorcycles are the rising stars of the collector market. Early sportbikes and final-generation air-cooled models are gaining strong interest.
Specifications Comparison
| 1981 Ducati Pantah 500SL | 1966 MV Agusta 350 Three | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 498 cc | 349 cc |
| Power | 44 hp | 42 hp |
| Torque | 38.0 Nm | 28.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 3 |
| Top Speed | 175 km/h | 185 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 168.0 kg | 152.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 182.0 kg | 164.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 790 mm | 780 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1380 mm | 1360 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 16.0 L | 15.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure sportbike performance, the 1966 MV Agusta 350 Three has the edge thanks to a higher top speed and lower weight. The 1981 Ducati Pantah 500SL, however, excels when aggressive cornering and track-day performance is the priority. For collectors, the 1966 MV Agusta 350 Three commands more attention with a 8/10 collectibility rating. Parts availability is moderate for the 1981 Ducati Pantah 500SL and very difficult for the 1966 MV Agusta 350 Three — an important factor for any restoration project.
About the 1981 Ducati Pantah 500SL
A sport bike from 1981, the 1981 Ducati Pantah 500SL delivers 44hp from its 498cc SOHC L-twin belt engine.
Full 1981 Ducati Pantah 500SL 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 →