1978 AMC Pacer vs. 1980 GMC Suburban
To start off, 1980 GMC Suburban is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 AMC Pacer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 AMC Pacer would be higher. At 4,228 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 AMC Pacer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 GMC Suburban (129 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1978 AMC Pacer. (110 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 GMC Suburban should accelerate faster than 1978 AMC Pacer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 GMC Suburban weights approximately 862 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.
Because 1980 GMC Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 AMC Pacer. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 GMC Suburban will offer significantly more control. 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, 1980 GMC Suburban (285 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 AMC Pacer. (265 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1980 GMC Suburban will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 AMC Pacer.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 AMC Pacer | 1980 GMC Suburban | |
| Make | AMC | GMC |
| Model | Pacer | Suburban |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4228 cc | 4092 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 265 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 2230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 5480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1950 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1800 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 3300 mm |
