2009 BMW 650 vs. 1989 BMW 850
To start off, 2009 BMW 650 is newer by 20 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, 2009 BMW 650 (362 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1989 BMW 850. (296 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 650 should accelerate faster than 1989 BMW 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 BMW 850 weights approximately 452 kg more than 2009 BMW 650.
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, 2009 BMW 650 (490 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 BMW 850. (450 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 650 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 BMW 850. 2009 BMW 650 has automatic transmission and 1989 BMW 850 has manual transmission. 1989 BMW 850 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 BMW 650 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 650 | 1989 BMW 850 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 650 | 850 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4797 cc | 4988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 362 HP | 296 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 490 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1792 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1860 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2790 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 90 L |
