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 1985 Kawasaki GPZ750 Turbo by contrast offered 738cc of DOHC inline-4 turbo power, delivering 112hp at 9000rpm. Tipping the scales at 261.0kg (575 lbs) with a top speed of 240km/h (149 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 | 1985 Kawasaki GPZ750 Turbo | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 553 cc | 738 cc |
| Power | 58 hp | 112 hp |
| Torque | 47.0 Nm | 92.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 4 |
| Top Speed | 185 km/h | 240 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 194.0 kg | 261.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 210.0 kg | 282.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 800 mm | 790 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1430 mm | 1505 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 16.0 L | 20.0 L |
| Gears | 6 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
Comparing these two Kawasaki machines reveals the brand's evolution. The 1981 Kawasaki GPz550 laid the groundwork with 58hp, while the later 1985 Kawasaki GPZ750 Turbo pushed output to 112hp. From a collector's perspective, the 1985 Kawasaki GPZ750 Turbo holds the edge with a 7/10 rating. Either way, both are worthy additions to any Kawasaki collection. Parts availability is good for the 1981 Kawasaki GPz550 and difficult for the 1985 Kawasaki GPZ750 Turbo — 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 1985 Kawasaki GPZ750 Turbo
Introduced in 1985, the 1985 Kawasaki GPZ750 Turbo features a 738cc DOHC inline-4 turbo engine producing 112hp, establishing itself as a notable sport bike.
Full 1985 Kawasaki GPZ750 Turbo Profile →