VS
The 1982 Kawasaki GPz750 and 1987 Kawasaki EX500 represent two chapters in Kawasaki's storied history.
The 1982 Kawasaki GPz750 from Japan was powered by a 738cc DOHC inline-4 producing 83hp at 9500rpm. Weighing 218.0kg (481 lbs) and with a seat height of 800mm, it was aimed at sportbike riders.
The 1987 Kawasaki EX500 by contrast offered 498cc of DOHC twin power, delivering 60hp at 10000rpm. Tipping the scales at 173.0kg (381 lbs) with a top speed of 190km/h (118 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 Kawasaki GPz750 from Japan was powered by a 738cc DOHC inline-4 producing 83hp at 9500rpm. Weighing 218.0kg (481 lbs) and with a seat height of 800mm, it was aimed at sportbike riders.
The 1987 Kawasaki EX500 by contrast offered 498cc of DOHC twin power, delivering 60hp at 10000rpm. Tipping the scales at 173.0kg (381 lbs) with a top speed of 190km/h (118 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 Kawasaki GPz750 | 1987 Kawasaki EX500 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 738 cc | 498 cc |
| Power | 83 hp | 60 hp |
| Torque | 65.0 Nm | 44.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 210 km/h | 190 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 218.0 kg | 173.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 236.0 kg | 189.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 800 mm | 780 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1470 mm | 1400 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 18.0 L | 16.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 6 -speed |
The Verdict
Comparing these two Kawasaki machines reveals the brand's evolution. The 1982 Kawasaki GPz750 laid the groundwork with 83hp, while the later 1987 Kawasaki EX500 pushed output to 60hp. From a collector's perspective, the 1982 Kawasaki GPz750 holds the edge with a 5/10 rating. Either way, both are worthy additions to any Kawasaki collection.
About the 1982 Kawasaki GPz750
A sport bike from 1982, the 1982 Kawasaki GPz750 delivers 83hp from its 738cc DOHC inline-4 engine.
Full 1982 Kawasaki GPz750 Profile →About the 1987 Kawasaki EX500
Kawasaki released the 1987 Kawasaki EX500 in 1987 with a 498cc DOHC twin powerplant making 60hp — a definitive sport bike.
Full 1987 Kawasaki EX500 Profile →