1997 BMW 850 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML 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 97 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML. (232 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW 850 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 240 kg more than 1997 BMW 850.
Because 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML 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 Mercedes-Benz ML 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 145 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML. (345 Nm). This means 1997 BMW 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW 850 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 850 | ML |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5379 cc | 3724 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 329 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 490 Nm | 345 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.1 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 249 km/hour | 205 km/hour |
| 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 | 2185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2720 mm |
