1997 BMW 850 vs. 1992 BMW 540
To start off, 1997 BMW 850 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 BMW 540. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 BMW 540 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 47 more horse power than 1992 BMW 540. (282 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW 850 should accelerate faster than 1992 BMW 540. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW 850 weights approximately 295 kg more than 1992 BMW 540. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 BMW 540. (400 Nm). This means 1997 BMW 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 BMW 540.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW 850 | 1992 BMW 540 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 850 | 540 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1992 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5379 cc | 3980 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 329 HP | 282 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 490 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.1 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 80 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1945 kg | 1650 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2770 mm |
