VS
The 1985 Yamaha RZ350 YPVS and 1966 MV Agusta 350 Three both compete in the sportbike segment, offering riders distinct interpretations of the formula.
The 1985 Yamaha RZ350 YPVS from Japan was powered by a 347cc 2-stroke twin YPVS producing 59hp at 9500rpm. Weighing 141.0kg (311 lbs) and with a seat height of 780mm, 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 1985 Yamaha RZ350 YPVS from Japan was powered by a 347cc 2-stroke twin YPVS producing 59hp at 9500rpm. Weighing 141.0kg (311 lbs) and with a seat height of 780mm, 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
| 1985 Yamaha RZ350 YPVS | 1966 MV Agusta 350 Three | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 347 cc | 349 cc |
| Power | 59 hp | 42 hp |
| Torque | 37.0 Nm | 28.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 3 |
| Top Speed | 195 km/h | 185 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 141.0 kg | 152.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 155.0 kg | 164.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 780 mm | 780 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1355 mm | 1360 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 16.0 L | 15.0 L |
| Gears | 6 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure sportbike performance, the 1985 Yamaha RZ350 YPVS has the edge thanks to more power (59hp vs 42hp) and a higher top speed and lower weight. The 1966 MV Agusta 350 Three, however, excels when aggressive cornering and track-day performance is the priority. Parts availability is moderate for the 1985 Yamaha RZ350 YPVS and very difficult for the 1966 MV Agusta 350 Three — an important factor for any restoration project.
About the 1985 Yamaha RZ350 YPVS
The 1985 1985 Yamaha RZ350 YPVS is a 347cc twin-cylinder sport bike that became one of Yamaha's most memorable motorcycles of the 1980s.
Full 1985 Yamaha RZ350 YPVS 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 →