1940 BMW R 35 vs 2023 GASGAS EC 250

Full specifications comparison • 2 motorcycles

Comparing 2 motorcycles
1940 BMW R 35 1940 BMW R 35

All-Round

Engine
Four stroke, single cylinder vertical, OHV
Power
10.4 kW / 14 hp @ 3500 rpm
Top Speed
N/A
Weight
155 kg / 351 lbs
2023 GASGAS EC 250 2023 GASGAS EC 250

All-Round

Engine
Liquid cooled,249cc,1-cylinder
Power
N/A
Top Speed
N/A
Weight
N/A
Full Specifications
General
Year1937 - 40-
Make ModelBMW R 35-
Dimensions
Ground Clearance (mm)-356 mm
Ground Clearance (in.)-14 in.
Seat Height-956 mm / 38 in.
Weights & Capacities
Dry Weight-108 kg / 49 lbs. lbs
Fuel Capacity12 liters / 3.1 US gal8 l / 2 gal.
Wet Weight155 kg / 351 lbs-
Performance
Max Power10.4 kW / 14 hp @ 3500 rpm-
Engine
Displacement (cc)-249cc
Displacement (ci)-15 cin.
Stroke-2-stroke
Bore x Stroke (mm)-66.4 mm x 72 mm
Displacement342 cc / 20.9 cu in.-
Engine DetailFour stroke, single cylinder vertical, OHVLiquid cooled,249cc,1-cylinder
Bore x Stroke72 x 84 mm-
Compression Ratio6.0:1-
Cooling SystemAir cooled-
Fuel Induction1 x SUM type C K 9/22-
IgnitionBosch magneto ignition-
StarterKickElectric starter
Drivetrain
Chain Size-520 X-Ring
ClutchSingle plate, dryDDS wet multi-disc clutch, Braktec hydraulics
Final DriveShaft-
Gear Ratios1st 3.4 / 2nd 2.18 / 3rd 1.35 / 4th 1.00:1-
Gearbox-6-speed
Transmission / Drive4 Speed-
Chassis
Frame TypePressed steel twin loop frameCentral double-cradle-type 25CrMo4 steel
Suspension - FrontTelescopic forkWP XPLOR-USD,48 mm
Suspension - RearRigid, spring loaded saddle-
Wheel Travel - Front-300 mm / 12 in.
Wheels & Brakes
Brakes - Rear Diameter (in.)-9 in.
Brakes - Front Diameter (in.)-10 in.
Brakes - Front Diameter (mm)-260 mm
Brakes - Rear Diameter (mm)-220 mm
Brakes - Front∅180mm DrumDisc brake
Brakes - Rear∅180mm DrumDisc brake
Tyres - Front3.0 x 19"-
Tyres - Rear3.5 x 19"-

Verdict

Winner on specs

1940 BMW R 35

The 1940 BMW R 35 edges out the 2023 GASGAS EC 250 thanks to its larger fuel tank and larger displacement. Specifications are one part of the picture - dealer support, parts availability, and intended use all matter too.

Key Differences

1940 BMW R 35 - Advantages

  • Larger fuel tank: More range between stops - an advantage on touring routes and remote roads.
  • Larger displacement: 342 cc vs 249 cc - more cubic capacity means broader torque delivery and greater low-end pull.

2023 GASGAS EC 250 - Advantages

  • Lighter: 108 kg vs 155 kg - easier to handle and less fatiguing on long trips.

1940 BMW R 35 vs 2023 GASGAS EC 250 - FAQs

What are the engine differences between the 1940 BMW R 35 and 2023 GASGAS EC 250?
The 1940 BMW R 35 uses Four stroke, single cylinder vertical, OHV, while the 2023 GASGAS EC 250 is powered by Liquid cooled,249cc,1-cylinder.
Which is lighter, the 1940 BMW R 35 or the 2023 GASGAS EC 250?
The 2023 GASGAS EC 250 is lighter at 108 kg compared to 155 kg for the 1940 BMW R 35 - a difference of 47 kg. This is a meaningful difference that affects handling and rider fatigue.
Which has the larger fuel tank, the 1940 BMW R 35 or the 2023 GASGAS EC 250?
The 1940 BMW R 35 has the larger tank at approximately 12 litres vs 8 litres for the 2023 GASGAS EC 250. At 5-6 l/100 km that is roughly 200-240 km vs 133-160 km between stops.
Which should I buy, the 1940 BMW R 35 or the 2023 GASGAS EC 250?
Both are strong choices. The 1940 BMW R 35 has the edge in larger fuel tank and larger displacement, while the 2023 GASGAS EC 250 stands out for lighter kerb weight. Visit dealers, arrange test rides, and factor in local parts and service costs - these often matter as much as the spec sheet.