2009 BMW 550 vs. 1997 BMW 850
To start off, 2009 BMW 550 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, 2009 BMW 550 (362 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1997 BMW 850. (329 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW 850 weights approximately 283 kg more than 2009 BMW 550.
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, both vehicles can yield 490 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
2009 BMW 550 | 1997 BMW 850 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | 550 | 850 |
Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4799 cc | 5379 cc |
Horse Power | 362 HP | 329 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 490 Nm | 490 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 85.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 79 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 249 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1662 kg | 1945 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4790 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1470 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2690 mm |