1978 AMC Pacer vs. 2004 Porsche Cayenne
To start off, 2004 Porsche Cayenne 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 Porsche Cayenne (247 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 137 more horse power than 1978 AMC Pacer. (110 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Porsche Cayenne should accelerate faster than 1978 AMC Pacer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Porsche Cayenne weights approximately 792 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 Porsche Cayenne 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 Porsche Cayenne 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 Porsche Cayenne (310 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 AMC Pacer. (265 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2004 Porsche Cayenne will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 AMC Pacer.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 AMC Pacer | 2004 Porsche Cayenne | |
| Make | AMC | Porsche |
| Model | Pacer | Cayenne |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4228 cc | 3189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 265 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 11.5:1 |
| 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 | 2160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1710 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 100 L |
