1978 AMC Pacer vs. 1953 Jeep CJ
To start off, 1978 AMC Pacer is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1953 Jeep CJ. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1953 Jeep CJ would be higher. At 4,228 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 AMC Pacer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 AMC Pacer (110 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1953 Jeep CJ. (59 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 AMC Pacer should accelerate faster than 1953 Jeep CJ. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 AMC Pacer weights approximately 252 kg more than 1953 Jeep CJ. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1953 Jeep CJ is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 AMC Pacer. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1953 Jeep CJ 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, 1978 AMC Pacer (265 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1953 Jeep CJ. (145 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1978 AMC Pacer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1953 Jeep CJ. 1978 AMC Pacer has automatic transmission and 1953 Jeep CJ has manual transmission. 1953 Jeep CJ will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 AMC Pacer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 AMC Pacer | 1953 Jeep CJ | |
| Make | AMC | Jeep |
| Model | Pacer | CJ |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1953 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4228 cc | 2199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 265 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 1116 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 3130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1460 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2040 mm |
