1978 AMC Pacer vs. 2005 Honda Civic
To start off, 2005 Honda Civic 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 3,802 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 AMC Pacer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Honda Civic (115 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1978 AMC Pacer. (90 HP @ 3050 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Honda Civic should accelerate faster than 1978 AMC Pacer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 AMC Pacer weights approximately 284 kg more than 2005 Honda Civic.
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, 2005 Honda Civic, 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) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Honda Civic. (152 Nm). This means 1978 AMC Pacer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Honda Civic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 AMC Pacer | 2005 Honda Civic | |
| Make | AMC | Honda |
| Model | Pacer | Civic |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3802 cc | 1672 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3050 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 152 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1359 kg | 1075 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 50 L |
