1997 BMW 850 vs. 2012 BMW X5

To start off, 2012 BMW X5 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, 1997 BMW 850 (329 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2012 BMW X5. (304 HP @ 440 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW 850 should accelerate faster than 2012 BMW X5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW X5 weights approximately 240 kg more than 1997 BMW 850.

Because 2012 BMW X5 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 X5 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 X5 (600 Nm) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW 850. (490 Nm). This means 2012 BMW X5 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 X5
Make BMW BMW
Model 850 X5
Year Released 1997 2012
Body Type Coupe SUV
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 5379 cc 2993 cc
Engine Cylinders 12 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 329 HP 304 HP
Engine RPM 4800 RPM 440 RPM
Torque 490 Nm 600 Nm
Engine Bore Size 85.1 mm 90 mm
Engine Stroke Size 79 mm 84 mm
Top Speed 249 km/hour 237 km/hour
Drive Type Rear AWD
Transmission Type Automatic Automatic
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1945 kg 2185 kg
Vehicle Length 4790 mm 4857 mm
Vehicle Width 1860 mm 1933 mm
Vehicle Height 1350 mm 1776 mm
Wheelbase Size 2690 mm 2933 mm