2004 BMW Z4 vs. 1997 BMW 850
To start off, 2004 BMW Z4 is newer by 7 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 161 more horse power than 2004 BMW Z4. (168 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW 850 should accelerate faster than 2004 BMW Z4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW 850 weights approximately 620 kg more than 2004 BMW Z4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 280 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 BMW Z4. (210 Nm). This means 1997 BMW 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 BMW Z4. 1997 BMW 850 has automatic transmission and 2004 BMW Z4 has manual transmission. 2004 BMW Z4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 BMW 850 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW Z4 | 1997 BMW 850 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | Z4 | 850 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2171 cc | 5379 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 329 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 490 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 249 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1325 kg | 1945 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2690 mm |
