VS
The 1979 Kawasaki KZ1300 and 1973 MV Agusta 750GT are both iconic 1970s tourings that defined their respective markets.
The 1979 Kawasaki KZ1300 from Japan was powered by a 1286cc DOHC inline-6 producing 120hp at 8000rpm. Weighing 297.0kg (655 lbs) and with a seat height of 810mm, it was aimed at touring riders.
The 1973 MV Agusta 750GT, hailing from Italy, by contrast offered 743cc of DOHC inline-4 power, delivering 65hp at 8000rpm. Tipping the scales at 225.0kg (496 lbs) with a top speed of 190km/h (118 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 1979 Kawasaki KZ1300 from Japan was powered by a 1286cc DOHC inline-6 producing 120hp at 8000rpm. Weighing 297.0kg (655 lbs) and with a seat height of 810mm, it was aimed at touring riders.
The 1973 MV Agusta 750GT, hailing from Italy, by contrast offered 743cc of DOHC inline-4 power, delivering 65hp at 8000rpm. Tipping the scales at 225.0kg (496 lbs) with a top speed of 190km/h (118 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
| 1979 Kawasaki KZ1300 | 1973 MV Agusta 750GT | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1286 cc | 743 cc |
| Power | 120 hp | 65 hp |
| Torque | 108.0 Nm | 55.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 6 | 4 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/h | 190 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 297.0 kg | 225.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 327.0 kg | 242.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 810 mm | 800 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1580 mm | 1460 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 27.0 L | 18.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure touring performance, the 1979 Kawasaki KZ1300 has the edge thanks to more power (120hp vs 65hp) and a higher top speed. The 1973 MV Agusta 750GT, however, excels when long-distance touring with passenger comfort is the priority and offers a lighter package. Parts availability is moderate for the 1979 Kawasaki KZ1300 and very difficult for the 1973 MV Agusta 750GT — an important factor for any restoration project.
About the 1979 Kawasaki KZ1300
Born in 1979, the 1979 Kawasaki KZ1300 is a 1286cc six-cylinder touring motorcycle producing 120hp from Kawasaki.
Full 1979 Kawasaki KZ1300 Profile →About the 1973 MV Agusta 750GT
Introduced in 1973, the 1973 MV Agusta 750GT features a 743cc DOHC inline-4 engine producing 65hp, establishing itself as a notable touring motorcycle.
Full 1973 MV Agusta 750GT Profile →