1978 AMC Pacer vs. 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier
To start off, 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 24 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, 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier (121 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1978 AMC Pacer. (90 HP @ 3050 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier should accelerate faster than 1978 AMC Pacer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 AMC Pacer weights approximately 144 kg more than 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier.
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, 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier, 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 (222 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier. (176 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1978 AMC Pacer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 AMC Pacer | 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier | |
| Make | AMC | Chevrolet |
| Model | Pacer | Cavalier |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3802 cc | 2190 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 121 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3050 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.2 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.8 mm | 88 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1359 kg | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 57 L |
