1989 BMW 850 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 15 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 8 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML. (288 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 BMW 850 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 956 kg more than 1989 BMW 850.
Because 2004 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, 2004 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 BMW 850. (450 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2004 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 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 850 | ML |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4988 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 296 HP | 288 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 246 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.4 seconds | 6.9 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 | 2211 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1820 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 86 L |
