2009 BMW Z4 vs. 1997 BMW 850
To start off, 2009 BMW Z4 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 Z4 (335 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1997 BMW 850. (329 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW 850 weights approximately 635 kg more than 2009 BMW Z4.
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, 1997 BMW 850 (490 Nm) has 175 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW Z4. (315 Nm). This means 1997 BMW 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW Z4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW Z4 | 1997 BMW 850 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | Z4 | 850 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 5379 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 335 HP | 329 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 490 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 244 km/hour | 249 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1945 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2690 mm |
