VS
The 1980 Yamaha XJ650 and 1984 Yamaha XV1000 Virago represent two chapters in Yamaha's storied history.
The 1980 Yamaha XJ650 from Japan was powered by a 653cc DOHC inline-4 producing 71hp at 9000rpm. Weighing 215.0kg (474 lbs) and with a seat height of 800mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1984 Yamaha XV1000 Virago by contrast offered 981cc of OHV V-twin power, delivering 74hp at 7000rpm. Tipping the scales at 240.0kg (529 lbs) with a top speed of 175km/h (109 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 1980 Yamaha XJ650 from Japan was powered by a 653cc DOHC inline-4 producing 71hp at 9000rpm. Weighing 215.0kg (474 lbs) and with a seat height of 800mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1984 Yamaha XV1000 Virago by contrast offered 981cc of OHV V-twin power, delivering 74hp at 7000rpm. Tipping the scales at 240.0kg (529 lbs) with a top speed of 175km/h (109 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
| 1980 Yamaha XJ650 | 1984 Yamaha XV1000 Virago | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 653 cc | 981 cc |
| Power | 71 hp | 74 hp |
| Torque | 56.0 Nm | 77.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/h | 175 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 215.0 kg | 240.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 232.0 kg | 260.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 800 mm | 750 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1440 mm | 1560 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 16.0 L | 14.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
Comparing these two Yamaha machines reveals the brand's evolution. The 1980 Yamaha XJ650 laid the groundwork with 71hp, while the later 1984 Yamaha XV1000 Virago pushed output to 74hp. From a collector's perspective, the 1984 Yamaha XV1000 Virago holds the edge with a 5/10 rating. Either way, both are worthy additions to any Yamaha collection. Parts availability is good for the 1980 Yamaha XJ650 and moderate for the 1984 Yamaha XV1000 Virago — an important factor for any restoration project.
About the 1980 Yamaha XJ650
Born in 1980, the 1980 Yamaha XJ650 is a 653cc four-cylinder standard motorcycle producing 71hp from Yamaha.
Full 1980 Yamaha XJ650 Profile →About the 1984 Yamaha XV1000 Virago
The 1984 1984 Yamaha XV1000 Virago packs a 981cc OHV V-twin engine with 74hp into a cruiser package from Yamaha.
Full 1984 Yamaha XV1000 Virago Profile →