2009 Acura RL vs. 1997 BMW 850
To start off, 2009 Acura RL is newer by 12 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 29 more horse power than 2009 Acura RL. (300 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW 850 should accelerate faster than 2009 Acura RL.
Because 2009 Acura RL is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 BMW 850. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Acura RL 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, 1997 BMW 850 (490 Nm) has 123 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Acura RL. (367 Nm). This means 1997 BMW 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Acura RL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Acura RL | 1997 BMW 850 | |
| Make | Acura | BMW |
| Model | RL | 850 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3664 cc | 5379 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 300 HP | 329 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 367 Nm | 490 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2690 mm |
