1978 AMC Pacer vs. 2003 Chevrolet Prizm
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Prizm is newer by 25 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, 2003 Chevrolet Prizm (123 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1978 AMC Pacer. (110 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Prizm should accelerate faster than 1978 AMC Pacer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 AMC Pacer weights approximately 278 kg more than 2003 Chevrolet Prizm.
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, 2003 Chevrolet Prizm, 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 (265 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Chevrolet Prizm. (169 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1978 AMC Pacer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Chevrolet Prizm.
Compare all specifications:
1978 AMC Pacer | 2003 Chevrolet Prizm | |
Make | AMC | Chevrolet |
Model | Pacer | Prizm |
Year Released | 1978 | 2003 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4228 cc | 1794 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 110 HP | 123 HP |
Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 265 Nm | 169 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 1090 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4430 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2470 mm |