1978 AMC Pacer vs. 1972 AMC Matador
To start off, 1978 AMC Pacer is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 AMC Matador. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 AMC Matador would be higher. At 5,897 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 AMC Matador is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 AMC Matador (220 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 1978 AMC Pacer. (110 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 AMC Matador should accelerate faster than 1978 AMC Pacer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Matador weights approximately 232 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. Let's talk about torque, 1972 AMC Matador (427 Nm @ 3100 RPM) has 162 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 AMC Pacer. (265 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1972 AMC Matador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 AMC Pacer.
Compare all specifications:
1978 AMC Pacer | 1972 AMC Matador | |
Make | AMC | AMC |
Model | Pacer | Matador |
Year Released | 1978 | 1972 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4228 cc | 5897 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 110 HP | 220 HP |
Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 265 Nm | 427 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3100 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 95.2 mm | 103.6 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 99 mm | 87.3 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 8.5:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 1600 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 5240 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1970 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 3000 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 74 L |