The 1988 Honda VFR750R RC30 from Japan was powered by a 748cc DOHC V-4 producing 112hp at 11000rpm. Weighing 185.0kg (408 lbs) and with a seat height of 790mm, it was aimed at sportbike riders.
The 1991 Honda ST1100 Pan European by contrast offered 1084cc of DOHC V-4 power, delivering 100hp at 7500rpm. Tipping the scales at 268.0kg (591 lbs) with a top speed of 220km/h (137 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
| 1988 Honda VFR750R RC30 | 1991 Honda ST1100 Pan European | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 748 cc | 1084 cc |
| Power | 112 hp | 100 hp |
| Torque | 68.0 Nm | 106.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 4 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/h | 220 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 185.0 kg | 268.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 201.0 kg | 303.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 790 mm | 790 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1410 mm | 1555 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 18.0 L | 28.0 L |
| Gears | 6 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
Comparing these two Honda machines reveals the brand's evolution. The 1988 Honda VFR750R RC30 laid the groundwork with 112hp, while the later 1991 Honda ST1100 Pan European pushed output to 100hp. From a collector's perspective, the 1988 Honda VFR750R RC30 holds the edge with a 10/10 rating. Either way, both are worthy additions to any Honda collection. Parts availability is difficult for the 1988 Honda VFR750R RC30 and good for the 1991 Honda ST1100 Pan European — an important factor for any restoration project.
About the 1988 Honda VFR750R RC30
The 1988 1988 Honda VFR750R RC30 packs a 748cc DOHC V-4 engine with 112hp into a sport bike package from Honda.
Full 1988 Honda VFR750R RC30 Profile →About the 1991 Honda ST1100 Pan European
The 1991 1991 Honda ST1100 Pan European is a 1084cc four-cylinder touring motorcycle that became one of Honda's most memorable motorcycles of the 1990s.
Full 1991 Honda ST1100 Pan European Profile →