1978 AMC Pacer vs. 1974 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1978 AMC Pacer is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 7,467 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Pontiac Firebird (335 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 225 more horse power than 1978 AMC Pacer. (110 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1978 AMC Pacer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 82 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 | 1974 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | AMC | Pontiac |
| Model | Pacer | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4228 cc | 7467 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.2 mm | 104.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 99 mm | 108 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2750 mm |
