Photo: Matti Blume / Freisteller: Auge=mit · CC BY-SA 4.0
Brough Superior SS100
79/100 Overall
57 On the road100 As a classic
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
Brough Superior SS100 vs Harley-Davidson WLA
Brough Superior SS100 scores 79/100 overall against Harley-Davidson WLA on 74/100. On the road: 57–53. As classics: 100–95. Overall result: Brough Superior SS100.
Harley-Davidson WLA
74/100 Overall
53 On the road95 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | Brough Superior SS100 | Harley-Davidson WLA | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 7 | 4 | Brough Superior SS100 |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 7 | 5 | Brough Superior SS100 |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 4 | 3 | Brough Superior SS100 |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 6 | 7 | Harley-Davidson WLA |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 3 | 8 | Harley-Davidson WLA |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 7 | 5 | Brough Superior SS100 |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 10 | 9 | Brough Superior SS100 |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 10 | 10 | Level |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 10 | 9 | Brough Superior SS100 |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 10 | 10 | Level |
Choose the Brough Superior SS100 if…
you want the ultimate pre-war prestige motorcycle, combining performance, craftsmanship, history and exceptional rarity.
Choose the Harley-Davidson WLA if…
you want unmistakable wartime history, rugged simplicity and one of the world's most recognisable military motorcycles.
Background
History
Brough Superior SS100
The Brough Superior SS100 was produced from 1924–1940 and used a approximately 1000cc air-cooled V-twin. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for styling, historic importance, collector appeal. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Harley-Davidson WLA
The Harley-Davidson WLA was produced from 1940–1952 and used a 739cc air-cooled side-valve V-twin. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for historic importance, character, styling. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Interesting details
Did you know?
Brough Superior SS100
- Its production span in this library runs from 1924 to 1940.
- The recorded engine description is: approximately 1000cc air-cooled V-twin.
- Its strongest comparison scores are styling, historic importance, collector appeal.
Harley-Davidson WLA
- Its production span in this library runs from 1940 to 1952.
- The recorded engine description is: 739cc air-cooled side-valve V-twin.
- Its strongest comparison scores are historic importance, character, styling.
Present-day appeal
Collector notes
Brough Superior SS100
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Brough Superior SS100. Its library score for styling is 10/10. Values and desirability can vary substantially between years, specifications and restoration quality, so individual examples should be assessed on their own evidence.
Harley-Davidson WLA
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Harley-Davidson WLA. Its library score for historic importance is 10/10. Values and desirability can vary substantially between years, specifications and restoration quality, so individual examples should be assessed on their own evidence.
Before you buy
Buying checks
Brough Superior SS100
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check primary drive, charging system, engine mounts and evidence of non-standard modifications.
- Inspect the frame, wheels, brakes and suspension for wear, damage or poor repairs.
- Verify that important model-specific parts have not been replaced with incorrect later components.
- Review the paperwork, ownership history and any restoration invoices before purchase.
Harley-Davidson WLA
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check primary drive, charging system, engine mounts and evidence of non-standard modifications.
- Inspect the frame, wheels, brakes and suspension for wear, damage or poor repairs.
- Verify that important model-specific parts have not been replaced with incorrect later components.
- Review the paperwork, ownership history and any restoration invoices before purchase.
Period opposition
Historic rivals
Rivals to the Brough Superior SS100
Rivals to the Harley-Davidson WLA
Final result
The verdict
Brough Superior SS100 wins the direct on-the-road comparison. Brough Superior SS100 wins the classic-motorcycle comparison. Brough Superior SS100 takes the overall result after the road and classic scores are weighted equally.