1978 AMC Pacer vs. 2001 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 2001 Saab 03-Sep 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 3,802 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 AMC Pacer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Saab 03-Sep (203 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 1978 AMC Pacer. (90 HP @ 3050 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Saab 03-Sep should accelerate faster than 1978 AMC Pacer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Saab 03-Sep weights approximately 36 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, 2001 Saab 03-Sep, 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, 2001 Saab 03-Sep (280 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 AMC Pacer. (222 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2001 Saab 03-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 AMC Pacer.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 AMC Pacer | 2001 Saab 03-Sep | |
| Make | AMC | Saab |
| Model | Pacer | 03-Sep |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3802 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 203 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3050 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.2 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.8 mm | 78 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1359 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 75 L |
