1978 AMC Pacer vs. 1998 Dodge Viper
To start off, 1998 Dodge Viper is newer by 20 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 8,001 cc (10 cylinders), 1998 Dodge Viper is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Dodge Viper (450 HP) has 360 more horse power than 1978 AMC Pacer. (90 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Dodge Viper should accelerate faster than 1978 AMC Pacer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 AMC Pacer weights approximately 302 kg more than 1998 Dodge Viper.
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, 1998 Dodge Viper (664 Nm) has 442 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 AMC Pacer. (222 Nm). This means 1998 Dodge Viper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 AMC Pacer. 1978 AMC Pacer has automatic transmission and 1998 Dodge Viper has manual transmission. 1998 Dodge Viper 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 | 1998 Dodge Viper | |
| Make | AMC | Dodge |
| Model | Pacer | Viper |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3802 cc | 8001 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 10 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 450 HP |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 664 Nm |
| 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 | 1057 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 49 L |
