Harley-Davidson Sportster XL Ironhead vs Ducati 851 SP 3 (1991)
Side-by-side spec comparison, pricing, and a plain-English breakdown of how the Harley-Davidson Sportster XL Ironheadstacks up against the Ducati 851 SP 3. Numbers pulled from manufacturer spec sheets — click either bike for the full review.
Spec comparison
| Spec | Harley-Davidson Sportster XL Ironhead | Ducati 851 SP 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Model year | 1957 | 1991 |
| Price | $1,100 | — |
| Engine | 883 cc | 888 cc |
| Horsepower | 40 hp | 100 hp |
| Weight | 225 kg | — |
| Fuel capacity | 4.4 L | 5.3 L |
| Fuel type | petrol | petrol |
| Transmission | 4-speed | 6-speed |
| Front brakes | Expanding brake (drum brake) | Dual disc |
| Rear brakes | Expanding brake (drum brake) | Single disc |
| Tires | 3.25-19 / 3.25-19 | 120/60-17 / 180/55-17 |
Harley-Davidson Sportster XL Ironhead vs Ducati 851 SP 3 — which should you buy?
Picking between the Harley-Davidson Sportster XL Ironhead and the Ducati 851 SP 3 usually comes down to the numbers you care about most. On paper, the Harley-Davidson Sportster XL Ironhead brings 40 hp in a 225 kg package, while the Ducati 851 SP 3 counters with 100 hp.
Our spec tables above highlight the winning number on each line. For the full rider-focused reviews including real-world fuel economy, service costs and available colors, click into either bike: