VS
The 1981 Kawasaki GPz550 and 1966 MV Agusta 350 Three both compete in the sportbike segment, offering riders distinct interpretations of the formula.
The 1981 Kawasaki GPz550 from Japan was powered by a 553cc DOHC inline-4 producing 58hp at 9500rpm. Weighing 194.0kg (428 lbs) and with a seat height of 800mm, it was aimed at sportbike 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. 1980s motorcycles are the rising stars of the collector market. Early sportbikes and final-generation air-cooled models are gaining strong interest.
The 1981 Kawasaki GPz550 from Japan was powered by a 553cc DOHC inline-4 producing 58hp at 9500rpm. Weighing 194.0kg (428 lbs) and with a seat height of 800mm, it was aimed at sportbike 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. 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 Kawasaki GPz550 | 1966 MV Agusta 350 Three | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 553 cc | 349 cc |
| Power | 58 hp | 42 hp |
| Torque | 47.0 Nm | 28.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 3 |
| Top Speed | 185 km/h | 185 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 194.0 kg | 152.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 210.0 kg | 164.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 800 mm | 780 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1430 mm | 1360 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 16.0 L | 15.0 L |
| Gears | 6 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
These two sportbikes are remarkably well-matched. With 58hp versus 42hp, the performance difference is marginal. The choice between them comes down to brand loyalty, aesthetics, and riding preference. For collectors, the 1966 MV Agusta 350 Three commands more attention with a 8/10 collectibility rating. Parts availability is good for the 1981 Kawasaki GPz550 and very difficult for the 1966 MV Agusta 350 Three — an important factor for any restoration project.
About the 1981 Kawasaki GPz550
The 1981 1981 Kawasaki GPz550 is a 553cc four-cylinder sport bike that became one of Kawasaki's most memorable motorcycles of the 1980s.
Full 1981 Kawasaki GPz550 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 →