1968 BMW 1600 vs. 1997 BMW 850
To start off, 1997 BMW 850 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 BMW 1600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 BMW 1600 would be higher. At 5,379 cc (12 cylinders), 1997 BMW 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW 850 (329 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 229 more horse power than 1968 BMW 1600. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW 850 should accelerate faster than 1968 BMW 1600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW 850 weights approximately 955 kg more than 1968 BMW 1600. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 1997 BMW 850 (490 Nm) has 330 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 BMW 1600. (160 Nm). This means 1997 BMW 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 BMW 1600.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 BMW 1600 | 1997 BMW 850 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 1600 | 850 |
| Year Released | 1968 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1990 cc | 5379 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 329 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 490 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 85.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 1945 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2690 mm |
