1978 AMC Pacer vs. 1989 Audi 90
To start off, 1989 Audi 90 is newer by 11 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, 1989 Audi 90 (136 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1978 AMC Pacer. (90 HP @ 3050 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Audi 90 should accelerate faster than 1978 AMC Pacer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 AMC Pacer weights approximately 82 kg more than 1989 Audi 90.
Because 1989 Audi 90 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, 1989 Audi 90 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 (222 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Audi 90. (188 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1978 AMC Pacer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Audi 90. 1978 AMC Pacer has automatic transmission and 1989 Audi 90 has manual transmission. 1989 Audi 90 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 | 1989 Audi 90 | |
| Make | AMC | Audi |
| Model | Pacer | 90 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3802 cc | 2308 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 136 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3050 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 188 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.2 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.8 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1359 kg | 1277 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2540 mm |
