1978 AMC Pacer vs. 1991 Chevrolet Astro
To start off, 1991 Chevrolet Astro is newer by 13 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 4,293 cc (6 cylinders), 1991 Chevrolet Astro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Chevrolet Astro (183 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 1978 AMC Pacer. (110 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Chevrolet Astro should accelerate faster than 1978 AMC Pacer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Chevrolet Astro weights approximately 528 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 1991 Chevrolet Astro 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, 1991 Chevrolet Astro 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, 1991 Chevrolet Astro (338 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 AMC Pacer. (265 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1991 Chevrolet Astro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 AMC Pacer. 1978 AMC Pacer has automatic transmission and 1991 Chevrolet Astro has manual transmission. 1991 Chevrolet Astro 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 | 1991 Chevrolet Astro | |
| Make | AMC | Chevrolet |
| Model | Pacer | Astro |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4228 cc | 4293 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 183 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 265 Nm | 338 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.2 mm | 101.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 99 mm | 88.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 8 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 1896 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1980 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2830 mm |
