1997 BMW 850 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C

To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C 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, 1997 BMW 850 (329 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. (228 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW 850 should accelerate faster than 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW 850 weights approximately 310 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz C 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C 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 190 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. (300 Nm). This means 1997 BMW 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mercedes-Benz C.

Compare all specifications:

1997 BMW 850 2008 Mercedes-Benz C
Make BMW Mercedes-Benz
Model 850 C
Year Released 1997 2008
Body Type Coupe Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 5379 cc 2995 cc
Engine Cylinders 12 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V V
Horse Power 329 HP 228 HP
Engine RPM 4800 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 490 Nm 300 Nm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.0:1 11.3:1
Top Speed 249 km/hour 243 km/hour
Drive Type Rear 4WD
Transmission Type Automatic Automatic
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1945 kg 1635 kg
Vehicle Length 4790 mm 4590 mm
Vehicle Width 1860 mm 1780 mm
Vehicle Height 1350 mm 1450 mm
Wheelbase Size 2690 mm 2770 mm