1997 BMW 850 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz R 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 119 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz R. (210 HP @ 3400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW 850 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz R.
Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz R 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 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz R (542 Nm) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW 850. (490 Nm). This means 2012 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 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz R | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 850 | R |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| 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 | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Torque | 490 Nm | 542 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 5156 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1958 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1661 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 3216 mm |
