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The 1976 Moto Guzzi Le Mans 850 and 1981 Moto Guzzi Le Mans III represent two chapters in Moto Guzzi's storied history.
The 1976 Moto Guzzi Le Mans 850 from Italy was powered by a 844cc OHV V-twin producing 71hp at 7300rpm. Weighing 210.0kg (463 lbs) and with a seat height of 790mm, it was aimed at sportbike riders.
The 1981 Moto Guzzi Le Mans III by contrast offered 844cc of OHV V-twin power, delivering 75hp at 7500rpm. Tipping the scales at 206.0kg (454 lbs) with a top speed of 215km/h (134 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 1976 Moto Guzzi Le Mans 850 from Italy was powered by a 844cc OHV V-twin producing 71hp at 7300rpm. Weighing 210.0kg (463 lbs) and with a seat height of 790mm, it was aimed at sportbike riders.
The 1981 Moto Guzzi Le Mans III by contrast offered 844cc of OHV V-twin power, delivering 75hp at 7500rpm. Tipping the scales at 206.0kg (454 lbs) with a top speed of 215km/h (134 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
| 1976 Moto Guzzi Le Mans 850 | 1981 Moto Guzzi Le Mans III | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 844 cc | 844 cc |
| Power | 71 hp | 75 hp |
| Torque | 64.0 Nm | 66.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 210 km/h | 215 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 210.0 kg | 206.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 226.0 kg | 222.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 790 mm | 790 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1460 mm | 1460 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 18.0 L | 18.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
Comparing these two Moto Guzzi machines reveals the brand's evolution. The 1976 Moto Guzzi Le Mans 850 laid the groundwork with 71hp, while the later 1981 Moto Guzzi Le Mans III pushed output to 75hp. From a collector's perspective, the 1976 Moto Guzzi Le Mans 850 holds the edge with a 9/10 rating. Either way, both are worthy additions to any Moto Guzzi collection.
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 →About the 1981 Moto Guzzi Le Mans III
Born in 1981, the 1981 Moto Guzzi Le Mans III is a 844cc twin-cylinder sport bike producing 75hp from Moto Guzzi.
Full 1981 Moto Guzzi Le Mans III Profile →