VS
The 1981 Kawasaki GPz550 and 1974 Moto Guzzi 750S both compete in the sportbike segment, offering riders distinct interpretations of the formula.
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 1974 Moto Guzzi 750S, hailing from Italy, by contrast offered 748cc of OHV V-twin power, delivering 55hp at 6500rpm. Tipping the scales at 200.0kg (441 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 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 1974 Moto Guzzi 750S, hailing from Italy, by contrast offered 748cc of OHV V-twin power, delivering 55hp at 6500rpm. Tipping the scales at 200.0kg (441 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 | 1974 Moto Guzzi 750S | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 553 cc | 748 cc |
| Power | 58 hp | 55 hp |
| Torque | 47.0 Nm | 56.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 185 km/h | 190 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 194.0 kg | 200.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 210.0 kg | 216.0 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 55hp) and lower weight. The 1974 Moto Guzzi 750S, however, excels when aggressive cornering and track-day performance is the priority. For collectors, the 1974 Moto Guzzi 750S commands more attention with a 6/10 collectibility rating. Parts availability is good for the 1981 Kawasaki GPz550 and moderate for the 1974 Moto Guzzi 750S — 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 1974 Moto Guzzi 750S
Moto Guzzi released the 1974 Moto Guzzi 750S in 1974 with a 748cc OHV V-twin powerplant making 55hp — a definitive sport bike.
Full 1974 Moto Guzzi 750S Profile →