VS
The 1979 Kawasaki KZ1300 and 1979 Moto Guzzi SP1000 are both iconic 1970s tourings that defined their respective markets.
The 1979 Kawasaki KZ1300 from Japan was powered by a 1286cc DOHC inline-6 producing 120hp at 8000rpm. Weighing 297.0kg (655 lbs) and with a seat height of 810mm, it was aimed at touring riders.
The 1979 Moto Guzzi SP1000, hailing from Italy, by contrast offered 949cc of OHV V-twin power, delivering 68hp at 6500rpm. Tipping the scales at 230.0kg (507 lbs) with a top speed of 200km/h (124 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 Kawasaki KZ1300 from Japan was powered by a 1286cc DOHC inline-6 producing 120hp at 8000rpm. Weighing 297.0kg (655 lbs) and with a seat height of 810mm, it was aimed at touring riders.
The 1979 Moto Guzzi SP1000, hailing from Italy, by contrast offered 949cc of OHV V-twin power, delivering 68hp at 6500rpm. Tipping the scales at 230.0kg (507 lbs) with a top speed of 200km/h (124 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 Kawasaki KZ1300 | 1979 Moto Guzzi SP1000 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1286 cc | 949 cc |
| Power | 120 hp | 68 hp |
| Torque | 108.0 Nm | 70.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 6 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/h | 200 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 297.0 kg | 230.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 327.0 kg | 248.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 810 mm | 810 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1580 mm | 1500 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 27.0 L | 22.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure touring performance, the 1979 Kawasaki KZ1300 has the edge thanks to more power (120hp vs 68hp) and a higher top speed. The 1979 Moto Guzzi SP1000, however, excels when long-distance touring with passenger comfort is the priority and offers a lighter package. For collectors, the 1979 Kawasaki KZ1300 commands more attention with a 7/10 collectibility rating.
About the 1979 Kawasaki KZ1300
Born in 1979, the 1979 Kawasaki KZ1300 is a 1286cc six-cylinder touring motorcycle producing 120hp from Kawasaki.
Full 1979 Kawasaki KZ1300 Profile →About the 1979 Moto Guzzi SP1000
A touring motorcycle from 1979, the 1979 Moto Guzzi SP1000 delivers 68hp from its 949cc OHV V-twin engine.
Full 1979 Moto Guzzi SP1000 Profile →