1978 AMC Pacer vs. 2001 Audi A8
To start off, 2001 Audi A8 is newer by 23 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, 2001 Audi A8 (271 HP @ 3750 RPM) has 161 more horse power than 1978 AMC Pacer. (110 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1978 AMC Pacer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Audi A8 weights approximately 492 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 2001 Audi A8 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, 2001 Audi A8 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, 2001 Audi A8 (320 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 AMC Pacer. (265 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2001 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 AMC Pacer.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 AMC Pacer | 2001 Audi A8 | |
| Make | AMC | Audi |
| Model | Pacer | A8 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4228 cc | 3936 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 271 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Torque | 265 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.2 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 99 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 1860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 5060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 90 L |
