2006 BMW X3 vs. 1990 BMW 850
To start off, 2006 BMW X3 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 850 would be higher. At 4,988 cc (12 cylinders), 1990 BMW 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 BMW 850 (297 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 2006 BMW X3. (225 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 BMW 850 should accelerate faster than 2006 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW X3 weights approximately 35 kg more than 1990 BMW 850.
Because 2006 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1990 BMW 850. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 BMW X3 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, 1990 BMW 850 (450 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 159 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 BMW X3. (291 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1990 BMW 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 BMW X3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW X3 | 1990 BMW 850 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | X3 | 850 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1990 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2983 cc | 4988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 225 HP | 297 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.6 mm | 75 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1825 kg | 1790 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2690 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 52 L |
