1997 BMW 850 vs. 1988 Ford Fiesta

To start off, 1997 BMW 850 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Ford Fiesta would be higher. At 5,379 cc (12 cylinders), 1997 BMW 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW 850 (329 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 285 more horse power than 1988 Ford Fiesta. (44 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW 850 should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW 850 weights approximately 1177 kg more than 1988 Ford Fiesta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1997 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 1997 BMW 850. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Ford Fiesta, 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, 1997 BMW 850 (490 Nm) has 422 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Fiesta. (68 Nm). This means 1997 BMW 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Fiesta. 1997 BMW 850 has automatic transmission and 1988 Ford Fiesta has manual transmission. 1988 Ford Fiesta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 BMW 850 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

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