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 1976 Moto Guzzi Le Mans 850, hailing from Italy, by contrast offered 844cc of OHV V-twin power, delivering 71hp at 7300rpm. Tipping the scales at 210.0kg (463 lbs) with a top speed of 210km/h (130 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 | 1976 Moto Guzzi Le Mans 850 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 553 cc | 844 cc |
| Power | 58 hp | 71 hp |
| Torque | 47.0 Nm | 64.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 185 km/h | 210 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 194.0 kg | 210.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 210.0 kg | 226.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 800 mm | 790 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 16.0 L | 18.0 L |
| Gears | 6 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure sportbike performance, the 1976 Moto Guzzi Le Mans 850 has the edge thanks to more power (71hp vs 58hp) and a higher top speed. The 1981 Kawasaki GPz550, however, excels when aggressive cornering and track-day performance is the priority. For collectors, the 1976 Moto Guzzi Le Mans 850 commands more attention with a 9/10 collectibility rating. Parts availability is good for the 1981 Kawasaki GPz550 and moderate for the 1976 Moto Guzzi Le Mans 850 — 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 1976 Moto Guzzi Le Mans 850
Moto Guzzi released the 1976 Moto Guzzi Le Mans 850 in 1976 with a 844cc OHV V-twin powerplant making 71hp — a definitive sport bike.
Full 1976 Moto Guzzi Le Mans 850 Profile →