MV Agusta 750S
83/100 Overall
65 On the road100 As a classic
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
MV Agusta 750S vs Norton Commando 850
MV Agusta 750S scores 83/100 overall against Norton Commando 850 on 82/100. On the road: 65–68. As classics: 100–95. Overall result: MV Agusta 750S.
Photo: Yesterdays Antique Motorcycles · CC BY-SA 4.0
Norton Commando 850
82/100 Overall
68 On the road95 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | MV Agusta 750S | Norton Commando | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 9 | 7 | MV Agusta 750S |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 8 | 8 | Level |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 8 | 6 | MV Agusta 750S |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 6 | 5 | MV Agusta 750S |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 3 | 8 | Norton Commando |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 5 | 7 | Norton Commando |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 10 | 10 | Level |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 10 | 9 | MV Agusta 750S |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 10 | 9 | MV Agusta 750S |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 10 | 10 | Level |
Choose the MV Agusta 750S if…
you want exotic Grand Prix-derived engineering, magnificent sound and one of Italy's most prestigious road motorcycles.
Choose the Norton Commando if…
you want a fast, handsome British twin with excellent road manners and the distinctive Isolastic riding experience.
Background
History
MV Agusta 750S
The MV Agusta 750S was produced from 1969–1975 and used a 743cc air-cooled DOHC inline four. 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.
Norton Commando
The Norton Commando 850 was produced from 1973–1977 and used a 828cc air-cooled parallel twin. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for styling, character, historic importance. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Interesting details
Did you know?
MV Agusta 750S
- Its production span in this library runs from 1969 to 1975.
- The recorded engine description is: 743cc air-cooled DOHC inline four.
- Its strongest comparison scores are styling, historic importance, collector appeal.
Norton Commando
- Its production span in this library runs from 1973 to 1977.
- The recorded engine description is: 828cc air-cooled parallel twin.
- Its strongest comparison scores are styling, character, historic importance.
Present-day appeal
Collector notes
MV Agusta 750S
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the MV Agusta 750S. 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.
Norton Commando
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Norton Commando 850. 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
Buying checks
MV Agusta 750S
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check carburettor balance, charging output and exhaust condition across all cylinders.
- 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.
Norton Commando
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check vibration-related fasteners, primary drive condition and signs of persistent oil leakage.
- 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 MV Agusta 750S
Rivals to the Norton Commando
Final result
The verdict
Norton Commando 850 wins the direct on-the-road comparison. MV Agusta 750S wins the classic-motorcycle comparison. MV Agusta 750S takes the overall result after the road and classic scores are weighted equally.