1997 BMW 850 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R 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 114 more horse power than 2008 Mercedes-Benz R. (215 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW 850 should accelerate faster than 2008 Mercedes-Benz R.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz R 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 R 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R (540 Nm) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW 850. (490 Nm). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW 850 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz R | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 850 | R |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5379 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 329 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 490 Nm | 540 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 5160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 3220 mm |
