1999 BMW X5 vs. 1989 BMW 850
To start off, 1999 BMW X5 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 BMW 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 BMW 850 would be higher. At 4,988 cc (12 cylinders), 1989 BMW 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 BMW 850 (296 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 1999 BMW X5. (190 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 BMW 850 should accelerate faster than 1999 BMW X5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW X5 weights approximately 178 kg more than 1989 BMW 850.
Because 1999 BMW X5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 BMW 850. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1989 BMW 850 (450 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 169 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 BMW X5. (281 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 1989 BMW 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 BMW X5.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW X5 | 1989 BMW 850 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | X5 | 850 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1989 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2792 cc | 4988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 296 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.1 mm | 75 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1970 kg | 1792 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1710 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 90 L |
