1978 AMC Pacer vs. 2002 Volvo S60
To start off, 2002 Volvo S60 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 Volvo S60 (295 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 205 more horse power than 1978 AMC Pacer. (90 HP @ 3050 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Volvo S60 should accelerate faster than 1978 AMC Pacer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Volvo S60 weights approximately 92 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 2002 Volvo S60 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, 2002 Volvo S60 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, 2002 Volvo S60 (400 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 178 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 AMC Pacer. (222 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2002 Volvo S60 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 AMC Pacer.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 AMC Pacer | 2002 Volvo S60 | |
| Make | AMC | Volvo |
| Model | Pacer | S60 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3802 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 295 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3050 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.2 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.8 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1359 kg | 1451 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4610 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1810 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 68 L |
