VS
The 1975 Honda GL1000 Gold Wing and 1979 Moto Guzzi SP1000 are both iconic 1970s tourings that defined their respective markets.
The 1975 Honda GL1000 Gold Wing from Japan was powered by a 999cc SOHC flat-4 producing 80hp at 7500rpm. Weighing 265.0kg (584 lbs) and with a seat height of 810mm, it was aimed at touring riders.
The 1979 Moto Guzzi SP1000, hailing from Italy, by contrast offered 949cc of OHV V-twin power, delivering 68hp at 6500rpm. Tipping the scales at 230.0kg (507 lbs) with a top speed of 200km/h (124 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 1975 Honda GL1000 Gold Wing from Japan was powered by a 999cc SOHC flat-4 producing 80hp at 7500rpm. Weighing 265.0kg (584 lbs) and with a seat height of 810mm, it was aimed at touring riders.
The 1979 Moto Guzzi SP1000, hailing from Italy, by contrast offered 949cc of OHV V-twin power, delivering 68hp at 6500rpm. Tipping the scales at 230.0kg (507 lbs) with a top speed of 200km/h (124 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
| 1975 Honda GL1000 Gold Wing | 1979 Moto Guzzi SP1000 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 999 cc | 949 cc |
| Power | 80 hp | 68 hp |
| Torque | 80.0 Nm | 70.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/h | 200 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 265.0 kg | 230.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 289.0 kg | 248.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 810 mm | 810 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1530 mm | 1500 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 19.0 L | 22.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure touring performance, the 1979 Moto Guzzi SP1000 has the edge thanks to a higher top speed and lower weight. The 1975 Honda GL1000 Gold Wing, however, excels when long-distance touring with passenger comfort is the priority. For collectors, the 1975 Honda GL1000 Gold Wing commands more attention with a 7/10 collectibility rating. Parts availability is good for the 1975 Honda GL1000 Gold Wing and moderate for the 1979 Moto Guzzi SP1000 — an important factor for any restoration project.
About the 1975 Honda GL1000 Gold Wing
The 1975 1975 Honda GL1000 Gold Wing packs a 999cc SOHC flat-4 engine with 80hp into a touring motorcycle package from Honda.
Full 1975 Honda GL1000 Gold Wing Profile →About the 1979 Moto Guzzi SP1000
A touring motorcycle from 1979, the 1979 Moto Guzzi SP1000 delivers 68hp from its 949cc OHV V-twin engine.
Full 1979 Moto Guzzi SP1000 Profile →