1978 AMC Pacer vs. 2004 Saturn L
To start off, 2004 Saturn L 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 Saturn L (135 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1978 AMC Pacer. (90 HP @ 3050 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Saturn L should accelerate faster than 1978 AMC Pacer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 AMC Pacer weights approximately 39 kg more than 2004 Saturn L.
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 Saturn L, 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, 1978 AMC Pacer (222 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Saturn L. (199 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1978 AMC Pacer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Saturn L.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 AMC Pacer | 2004 Saturn L | |
| Make | AMC | Saturn |
| Model | Pacer | L |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3802 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3050 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 199 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.2 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.8 mm | 94 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 | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 62 L |
