1978 AMC Pacer vs. 2003 Ford Taurus
To start off, 2003 Ford Taurus 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 Ford Taurus (155 HP @ 4900 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1978 AMC Pacer. (110 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1978 AMC Pacer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Taurus weights approximately 217 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, 2003 Ford Taurus, 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 21 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Taurus. (244 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 1978 AMC Pacer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Taurus.
Compare all specifications:
1978 AMC Pacer | 2003 Ford Taurus | |
Make | AMC | Ford |
Model | Pacer | Taurus |
Year Released | 1978 | 2003 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4228 cc | 2967 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 110 HP | 155 HP |
Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 4900 RPM |
Torque | 265 Nm | 244 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3950 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 95.2 mm | 88.9 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 99 mm | 78.7 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 1585 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 5030 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2730 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 68 L |