2009 BMW X5 vs. 1997 BMW 850
To start off, 2009 BMW X5 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 47 more horse power than 2009 BMW X5. (282 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW 850 should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW X5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW X5 weights approximately 205 kg more than 1997 BMW 850.
Because 2009 BMW X5 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 BMW X5 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, 2009 BMW X5 (580 Nm) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW 850. (490 Nm). This means 2009 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW X5 | 1997 BMW 850 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | X5 | 850 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2993 cc | 5379 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 329 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 580 Nm | 490 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 85.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 238 km/hour | 249 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2150 kg | 1945 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1940 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1740 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2690 mm |
