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 1971 Moto Guzzi V7 Sport, hailing from Italy, by contrast offered 748cc of OHV V-twin power, delivering 52hp at 6300rpm. Tipping the scales at 195.0kg (430 lbs) with a top speed of 190km/h (118 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 | 1971 Moto Guzzi V7 Sport | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 553 cc | 748 cc |
| Power | 58 hp | 52 hp |
| Torque | 47.0 Nm | 55.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 185 km/h | 190 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 194.0 kg | 195.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 210.0 kg | 210.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 800 mm | 790 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 16.0 L | 17.0 L |
| Gears | 6 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure sportbike performance, the 1981 Kawasaki GPz550 has the edge thanks to more power (58hp vs 52hp) and lower weight. The 1971 Moto Guzzi V7 Sport, however, excels when aggressive cornering and track-day performance is the priority. For collectors, the 1971 Moto Guzzi V7 Sport commands more attention with a 9/10 collectibility rating. Parts availability is good for the 1981 Kawasaki GPz550 and moderate for the 1971 Moto Guzzi V7 Sport — 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 1971 Moto Guzzi V7 Sport
Moto Guzzi released the 1971 Moto Guzzi V7 Sport in 1971 with a 748cc OHV V-twin powerplant making 52hp — a definitive sport bike.
Full 1971 Moto Guzzi V7 Sport Profile →