1997 BMW 850 vs. 2006 Volkswagen Polo

To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 9 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 215 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen Polo. (114 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW 850 should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen Polo.

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, 2006 Volkswagen Polo, 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 405 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volkswagen Polo. (85 Nm). This means 1997 BMW 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volkswagen Polo. 1997 BMW 850 has automatic transmission and 2006 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 2006 Volkswagen Polo 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 2006 Volkswagen Polo
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model 850 Polo
Year Released 1997 2006
Body Type Coupe Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 5379 cc 1984 cc
Engine Cylinders 12 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 329 HP 114 HP
Engine RPM 4800 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 490 Nm 85 Nm
Engine Bore Size 85.1 mm 82.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 79 mm 92.8 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.0:1 10.5:1
Top Speed 249 km/hour 193 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Length 4790 mm 3920 mm
Vehicle Width 1860 mm 1660 mm
Vehicle Height 1350 mm 1470 mm
Wheelbase Size 2690 mm 2470 mm