VS
The 1983 Suzuki XN85 Turbo and 1979 Ducati MHR 900 both compete in the sportbike segment, offering riders distinct interpretations of the formula.
The 1983 Suzuki XN85 Turbo from Japan was powered by a 673cc DOHC inline-4 turbo producing 85hp at 8500rpm. Weighing 228.0kg (503 lbs) and with a seat height of 790mm, it was aimed at sportbike riders.
The 1979 Ducati MHR 900, hailing from Italy, by contrast offered 864cc of SOHC L-twin bevel power, delivering 72hp at 7500rpm. Tipping the scales at 192.0kg (423 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.
The 1983 Suzuki XN85 Turbo from Japan was powered by a 673cc DOHC inline-4 turbo producing 85hp at 8500rpm. Weighing 228.0kg (503 lbs) and with a seat height of 790mm, it was aimed at sportbike riders.
The 1979 Ducati MHR 900, hailing from Italy, by contrast offered 864cc of SOHC L-twin bevel power, delivering 72hp at 7500rpm. Tipping the scales at 192.0kg (423 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
| 1983 Suzuki XN85 Turbo | 1979 Ducati MHR 900 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 673 cc | 864 cc |
| Power | 85 hp | 72 hp |
| Torque | 72.0 Nm | 66.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 210 km/h | 210 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 228.0 kg | 192.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 246.0 kg | 207.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 790 mm | 790 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1450 mm | 1440 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 18.0 L | 18.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
These two sportbikes are remarkably well-matched. With 85hp versus 72hp, the performance difference is marginal. The choice between them comes down to brand loyalty, aesthetics, and riding preference. For collectors, the 1979 Ducati MHR 900 commands more attention with a 9/10 collectibility rating. Parts availability is difficult for the 1983 Suzuki XN85 Turbo and moderate for the 1979 Ducati MHR 900 — an important factor for any restoration project.
About the 1983 Suzuki XN85 Turbo
Suzuki released the 1983 Suzuki XN85 Turbo in 1983 with a 673cc DOHC inline-4 turbo powerplant making 85hp — a definitive sport bike.
Full 1983 Suzuki XN85 Turbo Profile →About the 1979 Ducati MHR 900
A sport bike from 1979, the 1979 Ducati MHR 900 delivers 72hp from its 864cc SOHC L-twin bevel engine.
Full 1979 Ducati MHR 900 Profile →