1978 AMC Pacer vs. 1961 Volkswagen 1500
To start off, 1978 AMC Pacer is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Volkswagen 1500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Volkswagen 1500 would be higher. At 3,802 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 AMC Pacer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 AMC Pacer (90 HP @ 3050 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1961 Volkswagen 1500. (52 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 AMC Pacer should accelerate faster than 1961 Volkswagen 1500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 AMC Pacer weights approximately 423 kg more than 1961 Volkswagen 1500. 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 | 1961 Volkswagen 1500 | |
| Make | AMC | Volkswagen |
| Model | Pacer | 1500 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 3802 cc | 1493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 52 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3050 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1359 kg | 936 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2430 mm |
