1997 BMW 850 vs. 2012 BMW 550
To start off, 2012 BMW 550 is newer by 15 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, 2012 BMW 550 (400 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1997 BMW 850. (329 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 550 weights approximately 105 kg more than 1997 BMW 850. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 BMW 550 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 BMW 850. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 BMW 550 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, 2012 BMW 550 (609 Nm) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW 850. (490 Nm). This means 2012 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW 850 | 2012 BMW 550 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 850 | 550 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5379 cc | 4400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 329 HP | 400 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 490 Nm | 609 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1945 kg | 2050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4899 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1464 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2968 mm |
