Matchless G50 vs Ducati 500 SL Pantah (1983)

Side-by-side spec comparison, pricing, and a plain-English breakdown of how the Matchless G50stacks up against the Ducati 500 SL Pantah. Numbers pulled from manufacturer spec sheets — click either bike for the full review.

Spec comparison

SpecMatchless G50Ducati 500 SL Pantah
Model year19631983
Price
Engine496 cc497 cc
Horsepower51 hp50 hp
Fuel capacity4.8 L
Fuel typepetrolpetrol
Transmission5-speed
Front brakesExpanding brake (drum brake)Dual disc
Rear brakesExpanding brake (drum brake). RigidSingle disc
Tires100/90-18 / 110/90-18

Matchless G50 vs Ducati 500 SL Pantah — which should you buy?

Picking between the Matchless G50 and the Ducati 500 SL Pantah usually comes down to the numbers you care about most. On paper, the Matchless G50 brings 51 hp, while the Ducati 500 SL Pantah counters with 50 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: