| Attribute | AJS Model 18 500 Statesman 1965 × | Sunbeam S8 500 1955 × |
|---|---|---|
| General | ||
| Production from (year) | 1965 | 1955 |
| Make | AJS | Sunbeam |
| Model | AJS Model 18 500 Statesman | Sunbeam S8 500 |
| Category | Allround | Sport touring |
| Engine and transmission | ||
| Engine type | Single cylinder, four-stroke | Twin, four-stroke |
| Fuel system | Carburettor | Carburettor |
| Displacement (cm³) | 498 | 487 |
| Power (kw) | 20.4 | 17.5 |
| Cooling system | Air | Oil & air |
| Transmission type,final drive | Chain | Shaft drive (cardan) |
| Bore (mm) | 86 | 70 |
| Stroke (mm) | 85.5 | 63.5 |
| Fuel control | - | Single Overhead Cams (SOHC) |
| Ignition | Bobine | - |
| Clutch | Wet multiplate | Dry singleplate |
| Lubrication system | - | Wet sump |
| Compression | - | 6.5:1 |
| Chassis | ||
| Front suspension | Telescopic | Telescopic |
| Rear suspension | Twin shock | Plungers |
| Front brakes | Expanding brake (drum brake) | Expanding brake (drum brake) |
| Rear brakes | Expanding brake (drum brake) | Expanding brake (drum brake) |
| Frame type | Single cradle | Twin cradle |
| Front tyre | 3.25-18 | - |
| Rear tyre | 3.25-18 | - |
| Seat | - | Two single seats |
| Wheels | Spoked | Spoked |
| Dimensions | ||
| Wheelbase (mm) | 1,397 | 1,400 |
| Dry weight (kg) | 172 | 187 |
| Power/weight ratio | 0.1186 | 0.0936 |