1978 AMC Pacer vs. 1981 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1981 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 3 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 3,802 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 AMC Pacer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 90 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 AMC Pacer weights approximately 174 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 1978 AMC Pacer is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1978 AMC Pacer. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Volkswagen Golf, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1978 AMC Pacer (222 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. (145 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1978 AMC Pacer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. 1978 AMC Pacer has automatic transmission and 1981 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1981 Volkswagen Golf 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 | 1981 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | AMC | Volkswagen |
Model | Pacer | Golf |
Year Released | 1978 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3802 cc | 1781 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 90 HP | 90 HP |
Engine RPM | 3050 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 222 Nm | 145 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 95.2 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 88.8 mm | 86.4 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1359 kg | 1185 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 3820 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1640 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1410 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2480 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 55 L |