VS
The 1982 Ducati 900SS and 1988 Ducati 851 represent two chapters in Ducati's storied history.
The 1982 Ducati 900SS from Italy was powered by a 864cc SOHC L-twin bevel producing 68hp at 7000rpm. Weighing 188.0kg (414 lbs) and with a seat height of 790mm, it was aimed at sportbike riders.
The 1988 Ducati 851 by contrast offered 851cc of DOHC L-twin 4-valve Desmo power, delivering 102hp at 9000rpm. Tipping the scales at 186.0kg (410 lbs) with a top speed of 245km/h (152 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 1982 Ducati 900SS from Italy was powered by a 864cc SOHC L-twin bevel producing 68hp at 7000rpm. Weighing 188.0kg (414 lbs) and with a seat height of 790mm, it was aimed at sportbike riders.
The 1988 Ducati 851 by contrast offered 851cc of DOHC L-twin 4-valve Desmo power, delivering 102hp at 9000rpm. Tipping the scales at 186.0kg (410 lbs) with a top speed of 245km/h (152 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
| 1982 Ducati 900SS | 1988 Ducati 851 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 864 cc | 851 cc |
| Power | 68 hp | 102 hp |
| Torque | 62.0 Nm | 82.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 210 km/h | 245 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 188.0 kg | 186.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 203.0 kg | 202.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 790 mm | 790 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 18.0 L | 16.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 6 -speed |
The Verdict
Comparing these two Ducati machines reveals the brand's evolution. The 1982 Ducati 900SS laid the groundwork with 68hp, while the later 1988 Ducati 851 pushed output to 102hp. From a collector's perspective, the 1988 Ducati 851 holds the edge with a 9/10 rating. Either way, both are worthy additions to any Ducati collection.
About the 1982 Ducati 900SS
The 1982 1982 Ducati 900SS packs a 864cc SOHC L-twin bevel engine with 68hp into a sport bike package from Ducati.
Full 1982 Ducati 900SS Profile →About the 1988 Ducati 851
The 1988 1988 Ducati 851 packs a 851cc DOHC L-twin 4-valve Desmo engine with 102hp into a sport bike package from Ducati.
Full 1988 Ducati 851 Profile →