1978 AMC Pacer vs. 1997 Dodge Copperhead
To start off, 1997 Dodge Copperhead is newer by 19 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, 1997 Dodge Copperhead (217 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 1978 AMC Pacer. (90 HP @ 3050 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Dodge Copperhead should accelerate faster than 1978 AMC Pacer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 AMC Pacer weights approximately 64 kg more than 1997 Dodge Copperhead.
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, 1997 Dodge Copperhead (255 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 AMC Pacer. (222 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1997 Dodge Copperhead will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 AMC Pacer. 1978 AMC Pacer has automatic transmission and 1997 Dodge Copperhead has manual transmission. 1997 Dodge Copperhead 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 | 1997 Dodge Copperhead | |
Make | AMC | Dodge |
Model | Pacer | Copperhead |
Year Released | 1978 | 1997 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3802 cc | 2700 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 90 HP | 217 HP |
Engine RPM | 3050 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 222 Nm | 255 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 4900 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1359 kg | 1295 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4250 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1840 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1270 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2800 mm |