VS
The 1986 Ducati Pantah 650SL and 1966 MV Agusta 350 Three both compete in the sportbike segment, offering riders distinct interpretations of the formula.
The 1986 Ducati Pantah 650SL from Italy was powered by a 649cc SOHC L-twin belt producing 56hp at 8000rpm. 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 1986 Ducati Pantah 650SL from Italy was powered by a 649cc SOHC L-twin belt producing 56hp at 8000rpm. 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
| 1986 Ducati Pantah 650SL | 1966 MV Agusta 350 Three | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 649 cc | 349 cc |
| Power | 56 hp | 42 hp |
| Torque | 52.0 Nm | 28.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 3 |
| Top Speed | 185 km/h | 185 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 168.0 kg | 152.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 183.0 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
These two sportbikes are remarkably well-matched. With 56hp 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 moderate for the 1986 Ducati Pantah 650SL and very difficult for the 1966 MV Agusta 350 Three — an important factor for any restoration project.
About the 1986 Ducati Pantah 650SL
The 1986 1986 Ducati Pantah 650SL is a 649cc twin-cylinder sport bike that became one of Ducati's most memorable motorcycles of the 1980s.
Full 1986 Ducati Pantah 650SL 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 →