1989 BMW 850 vs. 1999 Mercedes-Benz V
To start off, 1999 Mercedes-Benz V is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 BMW 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 BMW 850 would be higher. At 4,988 cc (12 cylinders), 1989 BMW 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 BMW 850 (296 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 157 more horse power than 1999 Mercedes-Benz V. (139 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 BMW 850 should accelerate faster than 1999 Mercedes-Benz V. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mercedes-Benz V weights approximately 745 kg more than 1989 BMW 850.
Because 1989 BMW 850 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1989 BMW 850. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Mercedes-Benz V, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1989 BMW 850 (450 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 240 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mercedes-Benz V. (210 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1989 BMW 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mercedes-Benz V. 1989 BMW 850 has automatic transmission and 1999 Mercedes-Benz V has manual transmission. 1999 Mercedes-Benz V will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1989 BMW 850 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 BMW 850 | 1999 Mercedes-Benz V | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 850 | V |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4988 cc | 2295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 296 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1255 kg | 2000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 3010 mm |
