1997 BMW 850 vs. 2008 Cadillac XLR
To start off, 2008 Cadillac XLR is newer by 11 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, 2008 Cadillac XLR (444 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 1997 BMW 850. (329 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Cadillac XLR should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW 850 weights approximately 385 kg more than 2008 Cadillac XLR.
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, 2008 Cadillac XLR, 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, 2008 Cadillac XLR (561 Nm) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW 850. (490 Nm). This means 2008 Cadillac XLR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW 850 | 2008 Cadillac XLR | |
| Make | BMW | Cadillac |
| Model | 850 | XLR |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5379 cc | 4371 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 329 HP | 444 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 490 Nm | 561 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.1 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1945 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2690 mm |
