The 1983 Honda VF750F Interceptor from Japan was powered by a 748cc DOHC V-4 producing 86hp at 10000rpm. Weighing 228.0kg (503 lbs) and with a seat height of 790mm, it was aimed at sportbike riders.
The 1984 Honda VT500 Shadow by contrast offered 491cc of OHV V-twin power, delivering 48hp at 8500rpm. Tipping the scales at 190.0kg (419 lbs) with a top speed of 155km/h (96 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
| 1983 Honda VF750F Interceptor | 1984 Honda VT500 Shadow | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 748 cc | 491 cc |
| Power | 86 hp | 48 hp |
| Torque | 62.0 Nm | 39.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 210 km/h | 155 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 228.0 kg | 190.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 248.0 kg | 208.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 790 mm | 730 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1490 mm | 1480 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 22.0 L | 12.0 L |
| Gears | 6 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
Comparing these two Honda machines reveals the brand's evolution. The 1983 Honda VF750F Interceptor laid the groundwork with 86hp, while the later 1984 Honda VT500 Shadow pushed output to 48hp. From a collector's perspective, the 1983 Honda VF750F Interceptor holds the edge with a 5/10 rating. Either way, both are worthy additions to any Honda collection. Parts availability is moderate for the 1983 Honda VF750F Interceptor and good for the 1984 Honda VT500 Shadow — an important factor for any restoration project.
About the 1983 Honda VF750F Interceptor
Introduced in 1983, the 1983 Honda VF750F Interceptor features a 748cc DOHC V-4 engine producing 86hp, establishing itself as a notable sport bike.
Full 1983 Honda VF750F Interceptor Profile →About the 1984 Honda VT500 Shadow
The 1984 1984 Honda VT500 Shadow packs a 491cc OHV V-twin engine with 48hp into a cruiser package from Honda.
Full 1984 Honda VT500 Shadow Profile →