1978 AMC Pacer vs. 1961 Porsche 356
To start off, 1978 AMC Pacer is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Porsche 356. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Porsche 356 would be higher. At 3,802 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 AMC Pacer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1961 Porsche 356 (135 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1978 AMC Pacer. (90 HP @ 3050 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1961 Porsche 356 should accelerate faster than 1978 AMC Pacer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 AMC Pacer weights approximately 579 kg more than 1961 Porsche 356.
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. 1978 AMC Pacer has automatic transmission and 1961 Porsche 356 has manual transmission. 1961 Porsche 356 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 | 1961 Porsche 356 | |
| Make | AMC | Porsche |
| Model | Pacer | 356 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 3802 cc | 1586 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3050 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1359 kg | 780 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1210 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2110 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 52 L |
