VS
The 1983 Suzuki XN85 Turbo and 1987 Suzuki VS1400 Intruder represent two chapters in Suzuki's storied history.
The 1983 Suzuki XN85 Turbo from Japan was powered by a 673cc DOHC inline-4 turbo producing 85hp at 8500rpm. Weighing 228.0kg (503 lbs) and with a seat height of 790mm, it was aimed at sportbike riders.
The 1987 Suzuki VS1400 Intruder by contrast offered 1360cc of OHC V-twin power, delivering 68hp at 5000rpm. Tipping the scales at 259.0kg (571 lbs) with a top speed of 165km/h (103 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 1983 Suzuki XN85 Turbo from Japan was powered by a 673cc DOHC inline-4 turbo producing 85hp at 8500rpm. Weighing 228.0kg (503 lbs) and with a seat height of 790mm, it was aimed at sportbike riders.
The 1987 Suzuki VS1400 Intruder by contrast offered 1360cc of OHC V-twin power, delivering 68hp at 5000rpm. Tipping the scales at 259.0kg (571 lbs) with a top speed of 165km/h (103 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 Suzuki XN85 Turbo | 1987 Suzuki VS1400 Intruder | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 673 cc | 1360 cc |
| Power | 85 hp | 68 hp |
| Torque | 72.0 Nm | 105.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 210 km/h | 165 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 228.0 kg | 259.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 246.0 kg | 280.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 790 mm | 720 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1450 mm | 1610 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 18.0 L | 14.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
Comparing these two Suzuki machines reveals the brand's evolution. The 1983 Suzuki XN85 Turbo laid the groundwork with 85hp, while the later 1987 Suzuki VS1400 Intruder pushed output to 68hp. From a collector's perspective, the 1983 Suzuki XN85 Turbo holds the edge with a 6/10 rating. Either way, both are worthy additions to any Suzuki collection. Parts availability is difficult for the 1983 Suzuki XN85 Turbo and good for the 1987 Suzuki VS1400 Intruder — an important factor for any restoration project.
About the 1983 Suzuki XN85 Turbo
Suzuki released the 1983 Suzuki XN85 Turbo in 1983 with a 673cc DOHC inline-4 turbo powerplant making 85hp — a definitive sport bike.
Full 1983 Suzuki XN85 Turbo Profile →About the 1987 Suzuki VS1400 Intruder
A cruiser from 1987, the 1987 Suzuki VS1400 Intruder delivers 68hp from its 1360cc OHC V-twin engine.
Full 1987 Suzuki VS1400 Intruder Profile →