1978 AMC Pacer vs. 2003 Nissan X-Trail
To start off, 2003 Nissan X-Trail 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 3,802 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 AMC Pacer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Nissan X-Trail (177 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1978 AMC Pacer. (90 HP @ 3050 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Nissan X-Trail should accelerate faster than 1978 AMC Pacer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Nissan X-Trail weights approximately 483 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 2003 Nissan X-Trail 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, 2003 Nissan X-Trail 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, 2003 Nissan X-Trail (245 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 AMC Pacer. (222 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2003 Nissan X-Trail will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 AMC Pacer.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 AMC Pacer | 2003 Nissan X-Trail | |
| Make | AMC | Nissan |
| Model | Pacer | X-Trail |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3802 cc | 2488 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 177 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3050 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1359 kg | 1842 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 60 L |
