1989 BMW 850 vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 12 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 5,438 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML (342 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1989 BMW 850. (296 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1989 BMW 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 1045 kg more than 1989 BMW 850. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 BMW 850. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML will offer significantly more control. 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML (510 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 BMW 850. (450 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 BMW 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 BMW 850 | 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 850 | ML |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4988 cc | 5438 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 296 HP | 342 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 510 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 246 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.4 seconds | 6.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1255 kg | 2300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 93 L |
