1978 AMC Pacer vs. 1956 Packard Carribean
To start off, 1978 AMC Pacer is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Packard Carribean. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Packard Carribean would be higher. At 6,129 cc (8 cylinders), 1956 Packard Carribean is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1956 Packard Carribean (306 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 196 more horse power than 1978 AMC Pacer. (110 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1956 Packard Carribean should accelerate faster than 1978 AMC Pacer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 Packard Carribean weights approximately 881 kg more than 1978 AMC Pacer. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 AMC Pacer | 1956 Packard Carribean | |
| Make | AMC | Packard |
| Model | Pacer | Carribean |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1956 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4228 cc | 6129 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 306 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 2249 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 5530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1990 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1530 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 3240 mm |
