The 1988 Honda VFR750R RC30 from Japan was powered by a 748cc DOHC V-4 producing 112hp at 11000rpm. Weighing 185.0kg (408 lbs) and with a seat height of 790mm, it was aimed at sportbike riders.
The 1981 Kawasaki GPz550 by contrast offered 553cc of DOHC inline-4 power, delivering 58hp at 9500rpm. Tipping the scales at 194.0kg (428 lbs) with a top speed of 185km/h (115 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
| 1988 Honda VFR750R RC30 | 1981 Kawasaki GPz550 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 748 cc | 553 cc |
| Power | 112 hp | 58 hp |
| Torque | 68.0 Nm | 47.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 4 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/h | 185 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 185.0 kg | 194.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 201.0 kg | 210.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 790 mm | 800 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1410 mm | 1430 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 18.0 L | 16.0 L |
| Gears | 6 -speed | 6 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure sportbike performance, the 1988 Honda VFR750R RC30 has the edge thanks to more power (112hp vs 58hp) and a higher top speed and lower weight. The 1981 Kawasaki GPz550, however, excels when aggressive cornering and track-day performance is the priority. For collectors, the 1988 Honda VFR750R RC30 commands more attention with a 10/10 collectibility rating. Parts availability is difficult for the 1988 Honda VFR750R RC30 and good for the 1981 Kawasaki GPz550 — an important factor for any restoration project.
About the 1988 Honda VFR750R RC30
The 1988 1988 Honda VFR750R RC30 packs a 748cc DOHC V-4 engine with 112hp into a sport bike package from Honda.
Full 1988 Honda VFR750R RC30 Profile →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 →