1978 AMC Pacer vs. 1993 Dodge Grand Caravan
To start off, 1993 Dodge Grand Caravan is newer by 15 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, 1993 Dodge Grand Caravan (143 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1978 AMC Pacer. (110 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1993 Dodge Grand Caravan should accelerate faster than 1978 AMC Pacer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1993 Dodge Grand Caravan weights approximately 207 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, 1993 Dodge Grand Caravan, 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 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1993 Dodge Grand Caravan. (235 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1978 AMC Pacer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1993 Dodge Grand Caravan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 AMC Pacer | 1993 Dodge Grand Caravan | |
| Make | AMC | Dodge |
| Model | Pacer | Grand Caravan |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1993 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4228 cc | 2972 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 143 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 265 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.2 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 99 mm | 73 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 1575 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1650 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 3040 mm |
