VS
The 1993 Kawasaki ZX-7R and 1981 Suzuki GSX1100S Katana both compete in the sportbike segment, offering riders distinct interpretations of the formula.
The 1993 Kawasaki ZX-7R from Japan was powered by a 748cc DOHC inline-4 producing 112hp at 11500rpm. Weighing 194.0kg (428 lbs) and with a seat height of 790mm, it was aimed at sportbike riders.
The 1981 Suzuki GSX1100S Katana by contrast offered 1075cc of DOHC inline-4 power, delivering 111hp at 8500rpm. Tipping the scales at 232.0kg (511 lbs) with a top speed of 230km/h (143 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1990s motorcycles represent peak analog engineering before electronics took over. Original, low-mileage examples are beginning to appreciate.
The 1993 Kawasaki ZX-7R from Japan was powered by a 748cc DOHC inline-4 producing 112hp at 11500rpm. Weighing 194.0kg (428 lbs) and with a seat height of 790mm, it was aimed at sportbike riders.
The 1981 Suzuki GSX1100S Katana by contrast offered 1075cc of DOHC inline-4 power, delivering 111hp at 8500rpm. Tipping the scales at 232.0kg (511 lbs) with a top speed of 230km/h (143 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1990s motorcycles represent peak analog engineering before electronics took over. Original, low-mileage examples are beginning to appreciate.
Specifications Comparison
| 1993 Kawasaki ZX-7R | 1981 Suzuki GSX1100S Katana | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 748 cc | 1075 cc |
| Power | 112 hp | 111 hp |
| Torque | 74.0 Nm | 95.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 4 |
| Top Speed | 255 km/h | 230 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 194.0 kg | 232.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 212.0 kg | 252.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 790 mm | 790 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1435 mm | 1510 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 18.0 L | 20.0 L |
| Gears | 6 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure sportbike performance, the 1993 Kawasaki ZX-7R has the edge thanks to more power (112hp vs 111hp) and a higher top speed and lower weight. The 1981 Suzuki GSX1100S Katana, however, excels when aggressive cornering and track-day performance is the priority. For collectors, the 1981 Suzuki GSX1100S Katana commands more attention with a 9/10 collectibility rating.
About the 1993 Kawasaki ZX-7R
Kawasaki released the 1993 Kawasaki ZX-7R in 1993 with a 748cc DOHC inline-4 powerplant making 112hp — a definitive sport bike.
Full 1993 Kawasaki ZX-7R Profile →About the 1981 Suzuki GSX1100S Katana
Suzuki released the 1981 Suzuki GSX1100S Katana in 1981 with a 1075cc DOHC inline-4 powerplant making 111hp — a definitive sport bike.
Full 1981 Suzuki GSX1100S Katana Profile →