VS
The 1978 Ducati 900SS and 1975 MV Agusta 750S America are both iconic 1970s sportbikes that defined their respective markets.
The 1978 Ducati 900SS from Italy was powered by a 864cc SOHC L-twin bevel producing 70hp at 7000rpm. Weighing 185.0kg (408 lbs) and with a seat height of 790mm, it was aimed at sportbike riders.
The 1975 MV Agusta 750S America by contrast offered 789cc of DOHC inline-4 power, delivering 75hp at 8500rpm. Tipping the scales at 222.0kg (489 lbs) with a top speed of 210km/h (130 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 1978 Ducati 900SS from Italy was powered by a 864cc SOHC L-twin bevel producing 70hp at 7000rpm. Weighing 185.0kg (408 lbs) and with a seat height of 790mm, it was aimed at sportbike riders.
The 1975 MV Agusta 750S America by contrast offered 789cc of DOHC inline-4 power, delivering 75hp at 8500rpm. Tipping the scales at 222.0kg (489 lbs) with a top speed of 210km/h (130 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
| 1978 Ducati 900SS | 1975 MV Agusta 750S America | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 864 cc | 789 cc |
| Power | 70 hp | 75 hp |
| Torque | 64.0 Nm | 62.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 4 |
| Top Speed | 215 km/h | 210 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 185.0 kg | 222.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 200.0 kg | 240.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 790 mm | 800 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 18.0 L | 18.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure sportbike performance, the 1978 Ducati 900SS has the edge thanks to a higher top speed and lower weight. The 1975 MV Agusta 750S America, however, excels when aggressive cornering and track-day performance is the priority. Parts availability is moderate for the 1978 Ducati 900SS and very difficult for the 1975 MV Agusta 750S America — an important factor for any restoration project.
About the 1978 Ducati 900SS
Introduced in 1978, the 1978 Ducati 900SS features a 864cc SOHC L-twin bevel engine producing 70hp, establishing itself as a notable sport bike.
Full 1978 Ducati 900SS Profile →About the 1975 MV Agusta 750S America
The 1975 1975 MV Agusta 750S America packs a 789cc DOHC inline-4 engine with 75hp into a sport bike package from MV Agusta.
Full 1975 MV Agusta 750S America Profile →