VS
The 1987 Kawasaki EX500 and 1971 Moto Guzzi V7 Sport both compete in the sportbike segment, offering riders distinct interpretations of the formula.
The 1987 Kawasaki EX500 from Japan was powered by a 498cc DOHC twin producing 60hp at 10000rpm. Weighing 173.0kg (381 lbs) and with a seat height of 780mm, 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.
The 1987 Kawasaki EX500 from Japan was powered by a 498cc DOHC twin producing 60hp at 10000rpm. Weighing 173.0kg (381 lbs) and with a seat height of 780mm, 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
| 1987 Kawasaki EX500 | 1971 Moto Guzzi V7 Sport | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 498 cc | 748 cc |
| Power | 60 hp | 52 hp |
| Torque | 44.0 Nm | 55.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/h | 190 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 173.0 kg | 195.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 189.0 kg | 210.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 780 mm | 790 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1400 mm | 1440 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 16.0 L | 17.0 L |
| Gears | 6 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure sportbike performance, the 1987 Kawasaki EX500 has the edge thanks to more power (60hp 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 1987 Kawasaki EX500 and moderate for the 1971 Moto Guzzi V7 Sport — an important factor for any restoration project.
About the 1987 Kawasaki EX500
Kawasaki released the 1987 Kawasaki EX500 in 1987 with a 498cc DOHC twin powerplant making 60hp — a definitive sport bike.
Full 1987 Kawasaki EX500 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 →