VS
The 1979 Ducati MHR 900 and 1988 Ducati 851 represent two chapters in Ducati's storied history.
The 1979 Ducati MHR 900 from Italy was powered by a 864cc SOHC L-twin bevel producing 72hp at 7500rpm. Weighing 192.0kg (423 lbs) and with a seat height of 790mm, it was aimed at sportbike riders.
The 1988 Ducati 851 by contrast offered 851cc of DOHC L-twin 4-valve Desmo power, delivering 102hp at 9000rpm. Tipping the scales at 186.0kg (410 lbs) with a top speed of 245km/h (152 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 1979 Ducati MHR 900 from Italy was powered by a 864cc SOHC L-twin bevel producing 72hp at 7500rpm. Weighing 192.0kg (423 lbs) and with a seat height of 790mm, it was aimed at sportbike riders.
The 1988 Ducati 851 by contrast offered 851cc of DOHC L-twin 4-valve Desmo power, delivering 102hp at 9000rpm. Tipping the scales at 186.0kg (410 lbs) with a top speed of 245km/h (152 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
| 1979 Ducati MHR 900 | 1988 Ducati 851 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 864 cc | 851 cc |
| Power | 72 hp | 102 hp |
| Torque | 66.0 Nm | 82.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 210 km/h | 245 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 192.0 kg | 186.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 207.0 kg | 202.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 790 mm | 790 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1440 mm | 1430 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 18.0 L | 16.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 6 -speed |
The Verdict
Comparing these two Ducati machines reveals the brand's evolution. The 1979 Ducati MHR 900 laid the groundwork with 72hp, while the later 1988 Ducati 851 pushed output to 102hp. Both share equal collector appeal at 9/10. Either way, both are worthy additions to any Ducati collection.
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 →About the 1988 Ducati 851
The 1988 1988 Ducati 851 packs a 851cc DOHC L-twin 4-valve Desmo engine with 102hp into a sport bike package from Ducati.
Full 1988 Ducati 851 Profile →