1978 AMC Pacer vs. 1968 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1978 AMC Pacer is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 3,802 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 AMC Pacer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 Lotus Elan (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1978 AMC Pacer. (90 HP @ 3050 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1968 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1978 AMC Pacer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 AMC Pacer weights approximately 657 kg more than 1968 Lotus Elan.
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 1968 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1968 Lotus Elan 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 | 1968 Lotus Elan | |
Make | AMC | Lotus |
Model | Pacer | Elan |
Year Released | 1978 | 1968 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3802 cc | 1558 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 90 HP | 108 HP |
Engine RPM | 3050 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 95.2 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 88.8 mm | 72.7 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1359 kg | 702 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 3690 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1430 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1170 mm |