1978 AMC Pacer vs. 2005 Ford Ranger
To start off, 2005 Ford Ranger is newer by 27 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 4,009 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Ford Ranger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Ford Ranger (206 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 1978 AMC Pacer. (90 HP @ 3050 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Ford Ranger should accelerate faster than 1978 AMC Pacer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 AMC Pacer weights approximately 61 kg more than 2005 Ford Ranger.
Because 2005 Ford Ranger 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, 2005 Ford Ranger 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, 2005 Ford Ranger (323 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 101 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 AMC Pacer. (222 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2005 Ford Ranger will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 AMC Pacer. 1978 AMC Pacer has automatic transmission and 2005 Ford Ranger has manual transmission. 2005 Ford Ranger will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 AMC Pacer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 AMC Pacer | 2005 Ford Ranger | |
| Make | AMC | Ford |
| Model | Pacer | Ranger |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3802 cc | 4009 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 206 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3050 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 323 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1359 kg | 1298 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 84 L |
