The 1985 Kawasaki GPZ750 Turbo from Japan was powered by a 738cc DOHC inline-4 turbo producing 112hp at 9000rpm. Weighing 261.0kg (575 lbs) and with a seat height of 790mm, 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
| 1985 Kawasaki GPZ750 Turbo | 1987 Kawasaki EX500 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 738 cc | 498 cc |
| Power | 112 hp | 60 hp |
| Torque | 92.0 Nm | 44.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 240 km/h | 190 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 261.0 kg | 173.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 282.0 kg | 189.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 790 mm | 780 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1505 mm | 1400 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 20.0 L | 16.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 6 -speed |
The Verdict
Comparing these two Kawasaki machines reveals the brand's evolution. The 1985 Kawasaki GPZ750 Turbo laid the groundwork with 112hp, while the later 1987 Kawasaki EX500 pushed output to 60hp. From a collector's perspective, the 1985 Kawasaki GPZ750 Turbo holds the edge with a 7/10 rating. Either way, both are worthy additions to any Kawasaki collection. Parts availability is difficult for the 1985 Kawasaki GPZ750 Turbo and good for the 1987 Kawasaki EX500 — an important factor for any restoration project.
About the 1985 Kawasaki GPZ750 Turbo
Introduced in 1985, the 1985 Kawasaki GPZ750 Turbo features a 738cc DOHC inline-4 turbo engine producing 112hp, establishing itself as a notable sport bike.
Full 1985 Kawasaki GPZ750 Turbo 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 →