1989 BMW 850 vs. 2008 MG ZR
To start off, 2008 MG ZR is newer by 19 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 137 more horse power than 2008 MG ZR. (159 HP @ 6900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 BMW 850 should accelerate faster than 2008 MG ZR. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 BMW 850 weights approximately 607 kg more than 2008 MG ZR. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2008 MG ZR, 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 276 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 MG ZR. (174 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 1989 BMW 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 MG ZR.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 BMW 850 | 2008 MG ZR | |
| Make | BMW | MG |
| Model | 850 | ZR |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4988 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 296 HP | 159 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6900 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 174 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 89.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1792 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 50 L |
