1978 AMC Pacer vs. 1984 GMC Jimmy
To start off, 1984 GMC Jimmy is newer by 6 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, 1978 AMC Pacer (110 HP) has 29 more horse power than 1984 GMC Jimmy. (81 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1978 AMC Pacer should accelerate faster than 1984 GMC Jimmy. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1984 GMC Jimmy weights approximately 27 kg more than 1978 AMC Pacer.
Because 1984 GMC Jimmy 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, 1984 GMC Jimmy 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, 1978 AMC Pacer (265 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 GMC Jimmy. (146 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1978 AMC Pacer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 GMC Jimmy. 1978 AMC Pacer has automatic transmission and 1984 GMC Jimmy has manual transmission. 1984 GMC Jimmy 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 | 1984 GMC Jimmy | |
| Make | AMC | GMC |
| Model | Pacer | Jimmy |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1984 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4228 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 81 HP |
| Torque | 265 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4330 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2560 mm |
