Formula 1 is widely regarded as the pinnacle of motorsport. The cars can exceed 200 miles per hour and are powered by highly advanced V6 turbo hybrid engines that produce over 1,000 horsepower. Thanks to cutting-edge aerodynamics, modern tyre technology, and the generation of massive downforce that helps cars corner at incredible speeds, F1 machines are built to dominate racetracks all over the world.

MotoGP represents the highest level of motorcycle racing. The bikes are built with lightweight frames and are powered by four-cylinder engines producing around 300 horsepower. They can reach top speeds of over 354 kph (220 mph). Although they have less horsepower compared to F1 cars, MotoGP bikes make up for it with their light weight, sharp handling, and rapid acceleration.

At first glance, it might seem simple to decide which is faster by comparing their speeds. However, the answer is not so straightforward.

MotoGP bikes often achieve higher top speeds than F1 cars at many circuits. However, Formula 1 cars are faster over an entire lap. Thanks to their four large tyres and powerful aerodynamic grip, F1 cars can carry much more speed through corners. For example, at tracks like the Circuit of the Americas in Texas, F1 cars reach around 330 kph (205 mph) on the long back straight. MotoGP bikes, in comparison, have been clocked at an impressive 355,5 kph (221 mph). Still, when it comes to complete lap times, F1 cars are about 25 seconds quicker around the circuit.

The main reason for this difference lies in cornering ability. A Formula 1 car can brake much later, turn at higher speeds, and accelerate earlier because of its aerodynamic stability. MotoGP bikes, while extremely fast in a straight line, must slow down more for corners as they depend mainly on mechanical grip and the rider’s skills to maintain control.

Official records also help to settle the discussion about top speeds. The fastest speed ever recorded in an F1 race is 372.5 kph per hour (231.4 mph), achieved by Valtteri Bottas at the Mexican Grand Prix in 2016. In MotoGP, the fastest recorded speed is 366.1 kph (227.5 mph), set by Brad Binder during the 2023 Italian Grand Prix at Mugello.

Even though Formula 1 holds the official record for the highest speed, MotoGP bikes often achieve faster speeds at tracks both series visit, such as COTA, Silverstone, and Mugello. This is mainly due to the incredible power-to-weight ratio of MotoGP machines. Some MotoGP bikes weigh only around 156 kg (346 pounds), and when adding a lightweight rider, they almost reach a one-to-one ratio of horsepower to weight.

The speed and power of MotoGP bikes bring a different kind of excitement. Riders have to be very precise when handling their machines, especially when accelerating out of corners. In Formula 1, the focus is more on precision and strategy, with drivers and teams working together to get the best possible performance out of their cars.

Both series offer something special for motorsport fans. MotoGP is known for its close racing and the battles between riders, while Formula 1 is all about teamwork, fine margins, and clever race strategies. At the end of the day, whether you prefer the fast, close fights of MotoGP or the technical excellence of Formula 1, both are a brilliant showcase of skill, speed, and passion for racing.