Ariel Square Four
77/100 Overall
58 On the road95 As a classic
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
Ariel Square Four vs Harley-Davidson WLA
Ariel Square Four scores 77/100 overall against Harley-Davidson WLA on 74/100. On the road: 58–53. As classics: 95–95. Overall result: Ariel Square Four.
Harley-Davidson WLA
74/100 Overall
53 On the road95 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | Ariel Square Four | Harley-Davidson WLA | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 7 | 4 | Ariel Square Four |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 6 | 5 | Ariel Square Four |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 4 | 3 | Ariel Square Four |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 5 | 7 | Harley-Davidson WLA |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 5 | 8 | Harley-Davidson WLA |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 8 | 5 | Ariel Square Four |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 9 | 9 | Level |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 10 | 10 | Level |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 9 | 9 | Level |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 10 | 10 | Level |
Choose the Ariel Square Four if…
you want unique engineering, refined four-cylinder character and one of Britain's most distinctive luxury motorcycles.
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
Ariel Square Four
The Ariel Square Four was produced from 1931–1959 and used a air-cooled square-four engine. 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.
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?
Ariel Square Four
- Its production span in this library runs from 1931 to 1959.
- The recorded engine description is: air-cooled square-four engine.
- Its strongest comparison scores are historic importance, character, styling.
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
Ariel Square Four
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Ariel Square Four. 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.
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
Ariel Square Four
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- 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 Ariel Square Four
Rivals to the Harley-Davidson WLA
Final result
The verdict
Ariel Square Four wins the direct on-the-road comparison. As classic motorcycles they also finish level. Ariel Square Four takes the overall result after the road and classic scores are weighted equally.