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The 1971 Moto Guzzi V7 Sport and 1981 Moto Guzzi Le Mans III represent two chapters in Moto Guzzi's storied history.
The 1971 Moto Guzzi V7 Sport from Italy was powered by a 748cc OHV V-twin producing 52hp at 6300rpm. Weighing 195.0kg (430 lbs) and with a seat height of 790mm, it was aimed at sportbike riders.
The 1981 Moto Guzzi Le Mans III by contrast offered 844cc of OHV V-twin power, delivering 75hp at 7500rpm. Tipping the scales at 206.0kg (454 lbs) with a top speed of 215km/h (134 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1970s bikes from the Japanese superbike revolution are increasingly sought after. Clean, original examples have seen significant value appreciation.
The 1971 Moto Guzzi V7 Sport from Italy was powered by a 748cc OHV V-twin producing 52hp at 6300rpm. Weighing 195.0kg (430 lbs) and with a seat height of 790mm, it was aimed at sportbike riders.
The 1981 Moto Guzzi Le Mans III by contrast offered 844cc of OHV V-twin power, delivering 75hp at 7500rpm. Tipping the scales at 206.0kg (454 lbs) with a top speed of 215km/h (134 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1970s bikes from the Japanese superbike revolution are increasingly sought after. Clean, original examples have seen significant value appreciation.
Specifications Comparison
| 1971 Moto Guzzi V7 Sport | 1981 Moto Guzzi Le Mans III | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 748 cc | 844 cc |
| Power | 52 hp | 75 hp |
| Torque | 55.0 Nm | 66.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/h | 215 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 195.0 kg | 206.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 210.0 kg | 222.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 790 mm | 790 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1440 mm | 1460 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 17.0 L | 18.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
Comparing these two Moto Guzzi machines reveals the brand's evolution. The 1971 Moto Guzzi V7 Sport laid the groundwork with 52hp, while the later 1981 Moto Guzzi Le Mans III pushed output to 75hp. From a collector's perspective, the 1971 Moto Guzzi V7 Sport holds the edge with a 9/10 rating. Either way, both are worthy additions to any Moto Guzzi collection.
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 →About the 1981 Moto Guzzi Le Mans III
Born in 1981, the 1981 Moto Guzzi Le Mans III is a 844cc twin-cylinder sport bike producing 75hp from Moto Guzzi.
Full 1981 Moto Guzzi Le Mans III Profile →