1978 AMC Pacer vs. 2004 Buick Century
To start off, 2004 Buick Century is newer by 26 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, 2004 Buick Century (176 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1978 AMC Pacer. (90 HP @ 3050 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Buick Century should accelerate faster than 1978 AMC Pacer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Buick Century weights approximately 161 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, 2004 Buick Century, 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, 2004 Buick Century (264 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 AMC Pacer. (222 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2004 Buick Century will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 AMC Pacer.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 AMC Pacer | 2004 Buick Century | |
| Make | AMC | Buick |
| Model | Pacer | Century |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3802 cc | 3134 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 176 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3050 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 264 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.2 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.8 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1359 kg | 1520 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2780 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 64 L |
