1997 BMW 850 vs. 2011 Chevrolet Impala

To start off, 2011 Chevrolet Impala is newer by 14 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 118 more horse power than 2011 Chevrolet Impala. (211 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW 850 should accelerate faster than 2011 Chevrolet Impala. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW 850 weights approximately 332 kg more than 2011 Chevrolet Impala. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

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, 2011 Chevrolet Impala, 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 197 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Chevrolet Impala. (293 Nm). This means 1997 BMW 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Chevrolet Impala.

Compare all specifications:

1997 BMW 850 2011 Chevrolet Impala
Make BMW Chevrolet
Model 850 Impala
Year Released 1997 2011
Body Type Coupe Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 5379 cc 3500 cc
Engine Cylinders 12 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type V V
Horse Power 329 HP 211 HP
Engine RPM 4800 RPM 5800 RPM
Torque 490 Nm 293 Nm
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Automatic
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1945 kg 1613 kg
Vehicle Length 4790 mm 5090 mm
Vehicle Width 1860 mm 1852 mm
Vehicle Height 1350 mm 1491 mm
Wheelbase Size 2690 mm 2807 mm