1978 AMC Pacer vs. 2004 Nissan Xterra
To start off, 2004 Nissan Xterra 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 4,228 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 AMC Pacer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Nissan Xterra (180 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1978 AMC Pacer. (110 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Nissan Xterra should accelerate faster than 1978 AMC Pacer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Nissan Xterra weights approximately 396 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 2004 Nissan Xterra 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, 2004 Nissan Xterra 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, 2004 Nissan Xterra (274 Nm) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 AMC Pacer. (265 Nm). This means 2004 Nissan Xterra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 AMC Pacer.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 AMC Pacer | 2004 Nissan Xterra | |
| Make | AMC | Nissan |
| Model | Pacer | Xterra |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4228 cc | 3278 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 265 Nm | 274 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.2 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 99 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 8.9:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 1764 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1880 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 73 L |
