1978 AMC Pacer vs. 1986 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 1986 Lotus Esprit is newer by 8 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, 1986 Lotus Esprit (215 HP) has 125 more horse power than 1978 AMC Pacer. (90 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1978 AMC Pacer.
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, 1986 Lotus Esprit (405 Nm) has 183 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 AMC Pacer. (222 Nm). This means 1986 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 AMC Pacer. 1978 AMC Pacer has automatic transmission and 1986 Lotus Esprit has manual transmission. 1986 Lotus Esprit 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 | 1986 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | AMC | Lotus |
| Model | Pacer | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 3802 cc | 2174 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 215 HP |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 405 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.2 mm | 95.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.8 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2440 mm |
