
Photo: Matti Blume / Freisteller: Auge=mit · CC BY-SA 4.0
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
Brough Superior SS100 scores 79/100 overall against Moto Guzzi 850 Le Mans on 88/100. On the road: 57–78. As classics: 100–98. Overall result: Moto Guzzi 850 Le Mans.

Photo: Matti Blume / Freisteller: Auge=mit · CC BY-SA 4.0

Photo: Quelle: User:KarleHorn / Freisteller, Bildbearbeitung & Retusche von Auge=mit · CC BY-SA 4.0
The numbers
| Category | Brough Superior SS100 | Moto Guzzi Le Mans | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 7 | 8 | Moto Guzzi Le Mans |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 7 | 9 | Moto Guzzi Le Mans |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 4 | 9 | Moto Guzzi Le Mans |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 6 | 8 | Moto Guzzi Le Mans |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 3 | 7 | Moto Guzzi Le Mans |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 7 | 6 | Brough Superior SS100 |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 10 | 10 | Level |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 10 | 9 | Brough Superior SS100 |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 10 | 10 | Level |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 10 | 10 | Level |
you want the ultimate pre-war prestige motorcycle, combining performance, craftsmanship, history and exceptional rarity.
you want stable sporting handling, forceful V-twin character and distinctive Italian endurance-racer style.
Background
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.
The Moto Guzzi 850 Le Mans was produced from 1976–1978 and used a 844cc air-cooled longitudinal 90-degree V-twin. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for styling, collector appeal, character. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Interesting details
Present-day appeal
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.
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Moto Guzzi 850 Le Mans. 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.
Before you buy
Period opposition
Final result
Moto Guzzi 850 Le Mans wins the direct on-the-road comparison. Brough Superior SS100 wins the classic-motorcycle comparison. Moto Guzzi 850 Le Mans takes the overall result after the road and classic scores are weighted equally.