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 1988 BMW R100GS, hailing from Germany, by contrast offered 980cc of OHV flat-twin power, delivering 60hp at 6500rpm. Tipping the scales at 195.0kg (430 lbs) with a top speed of 175km/h (109 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 | 1988 BMW R100GS | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 748 cc | 980 cc |
| Power | 86 hp | 60 hp |
| Torque | 62.0 Nm | 56.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 210 km/h | 175 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 228.0 kg | 195.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 248.0 kg | 213.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 790 mm | 860 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1490 mm | 1504 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 22.0 L | 26.0 L |
| Gears | 6 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
These two machines serve fundamentally different purposes. The 1983 Honda VF750F Interceptor is built for aggressive cornering and track-day performance, while the 1988 BMW R100GS targets off-road capability and adventure riding. On paper, the 1983 Honda VF750F Interceptor's 86hp trumps the 1988 BMW R100GS's 60hp, but raw numbers don't tell the whole story in such different segments. Choose the 1983 Honda VF750F Interceptor if you value aggressive cornering and track-day performance; pick the 1988 BMW R100GS for off-road capability and adventure riding. Parts availability is moderate for the 1983 Honda VF750F Interceptor and good for the 1988 BMW R100GS — 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 1988 BMW R100GS
A dual-sport from 1988, the 1988 BMW R100GS delivers 60hp from its 980cc OHV flat-twin engine.
Full 1988 BMW R100GS Profile →