Ariel MK1 Square Four vs Yamaha C3 (1953)

Side-by-side spec comparison, pricing, and a plain-English breakdown of how the Ariel MK1 Square Fourstacks up against the Yamaha C3. Numbers pulled from manufacturer spec sheets — click either bike for the full review.

Spec comparison

SpecAriel MK1 Square FourYamaha C3
Model year19531915
Price
Engine997 cc999 cc
Weight193 kg
Fuel capacity6.1 L
Fuel typepetrolpetrol
Front brakesExpanding brake (drum brake)
Rear brakesExpanding brake (drum brake)
Tires3.25-19 / 4-18 3-28 / 3-28

Ariel MK1 Square Four vs Yamaha C3 — which should you buy?

Picking between the Ariel MK1 Square Four and the Yamaha C3 usually comes down to the numbers you care about most. On paper, the Ariel MK1 Square Four brings its published horsepower in a 193 kg package, while the Yamaha C3 counters with its own power figure.

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: