1989 BMW 850 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 16 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz R (302 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1989 BMW 850. (296 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 1989 BMW 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz R weights approximately 448 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz R 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz R 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz R (461 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 BMW 850. (450 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 BMW 850. 2005 Mercedes-Benz R has automatic transmission and 1989 BMW 850 has manual transmission. 1989 BMW 850 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mercedes-Benz R will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 BMW 850 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz R | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 850 | R |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4988 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 296 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 461 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1792 kg | 2240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 5160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1660 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 80 L |
