1978 AMC Pacer vs. 2003 Pontiac Aztek
To start off, 2003 Pontiac Aztek 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 Pontiac Aztek (176 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1978 AMC Pacer. (110 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Pontiac Aztek should accelerate faster than 1978 AMC Pacer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Pontiac Aztek weights approximately 462 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 Pontiac Aztek 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 Pontiac Aztek 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 Pontiac Aztek (298 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 AMC Pacer. (265 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2003 Pontiac Aztek will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 AMC Pacer.
Compare all specifications:
1978 AMC Pacer | 2003 Pontiac Aztek | |
Make | AMC | Pontiac |
Model | Pacer | Aztek |
Year Released | 1978 | 2003 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4228 cc | 3392 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 110 HP | 176 HP |
Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 265 Nm | 298 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 95.2 mm | 92 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 99 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 8.6:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 1830 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4630 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1880 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1700 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2760 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 69 L |