1997 BMW 850 vs. 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe

To start off, 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe 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 53 more horse power than 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe. (276 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW 850 should accelerate faster than 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW 850 weights approximately 175 kg more than 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe. 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, 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe, 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 154 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe. (336 Nm). This means 1997 BMW 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe.

Compare all specifications:

1997 BMW 850 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe
Make BMW Hyundai
Model 850 Santa Fe
Year Released 1997 2012
Body Type Coupe SUV
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 5379 cc 3500 cc
Engine Cylinders 12 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type V V
Horse Power 329 HP 276 HP
Engine RPM 4800 RPM 6300 RPM
Torque 490 Nm 336 Nm
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic 6-speed shiftable automatic
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1945 kg 1770 kg
Vehicle Length 4790 mm 4676 mm
Vehicle Width 1860 mm 1890 mm
Vehicle Height 1350 mm 1725 mm
Wheelbase Size 2690 mm 2700 mm