1997 BMW 850 vs. 2003 BMW Z8
To start off, 2003 BMW Z8 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, 2003 BMW Z8 (400 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1997 BMW 850. (329 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW Z8 should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW 850 weights approximately 360 kg more than 2003 BMW Z8.
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, 2003 BMW Z8 (500 Nm) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW 850. (490 Nm). This means 2003 BMW Z8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW 850. 1997 BMW 850 has automatic transmission and 2003 BMW Z8 has manual transmission. 2003 BMW Z8 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.
Compare all specifications:
1997 BMW 850 | 2003 BMW Z8 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | 850 | Z8 |
Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5379 cc | 4939 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Horse Power | 329 HP | 400 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6600 RPM |
Torque | 490 Nm | 500 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 85.1 mm | 94 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 89 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
Top Speed | 249 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1945 kg | 1585 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4410 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1840 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1320 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2580 mm |