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 1978 Ducati 900SS, hailing from Italy, by contrast offered 864cc of SOHC L-twin bevel power, delivering 70hp at 7000rpm. Tipping the scales at 185.0kg (408 lbs) with a top speed of 215km/h (134 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 | 1978 Ducati 900SS | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 553 cc | 864 cc |
| Power | 58 hp | 70 hp |
| Torque | 47.0 Nm | 64.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 185 km/h | 215 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 194.0 kg | 185.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 210.0 kg | 200.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 800 mm | 790 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 16.0 L | 18.0 L |
| Gears | 6 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure sportbike performance, the 1978 Ducati 900SS has the edge thanks to more power (70hp vs 58hp) and a higher top speed and lower weight. The 1981 Kawasaki GPz550, however, excels when aggressive cornering and track-day performance is the priority. For collectors, the 1978 Ducati 900SS commands more attention with a 8/10 collectibility rating. Parts availability is good for the 1981 Kawasaki GPz550 and moderate for the 1978 Ducati 900SS — 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 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 →