1997 BMW 850 vs. 2003 BMW 330
To start off, 2003 BMW 330 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW 850 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 145 more horse power than 2003 BMW 330. (184 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW 850 should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW 330. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW 850 weights approximately 140 kg more than 2003 BMW 330. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 BMW 330 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 BMW 850. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 BMW 330 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, 1997 BMW 850 (490 Nm) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW 330. (410 Nm). This means 1997 BMW 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW 330.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW 850 | 2003 BMW 330 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 850 | 330 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5379 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 329 HP | 184 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 490 Nm | 410 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.1 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 17.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1945 kg | 1805 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2840 mm |
