1978 AMC Pacer vs. 1991 Oldsmobile Cutlass

To start off, 1991 Oldsmobile Cutlass 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 4,228 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 AMC Pacer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Oldsmobile Cutlass (158 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1978 AMC Pacer. (110 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Oldsmobile Cutlass should accelerate faster than 1978 AMC Pacer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Oldsmobile Cutlass weights approximately 77 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 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, 1991 Oldsmobile Cutlass, 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 (265 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (203 Nm @ 5200 RPM). This means 1978 AMC Pacer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Oldsmobile Cutlass. 1978 AMC Pacer has automatic transmission and 1991 Oldsmobile Cutlass has manual transmission. 1991 Oldsmobile Cutlass 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 Oldsmobile Cutlass
Make AMC Oldsmobile
Model Pacer Cutlass
Year Released 1978 1991
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4228 cc 2260 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 110 HP 158 HP
Engine RPM 3500 RPM 6200 RPM
Torque 265 Nm 203 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 5200 RPM
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Vehicle Weight 1368 kg 1445 kg
Vehicle Length 4360 mm 4930 mm
Vehicle Width 1960 mm 1810 mm
Vehicle Height 1370 mm 1350 mm
Wheelbase Size 2550 mm 2740 mm


 

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