1978 AMC Pacer vs. 2005 Kia Spectra
To start off, 2005 Kia Spectra 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 Kia Spectra (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1978 AMC Pacer. (90 HP @ 3050 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Kia Spectra should accelerate faster than 1978 AMC Pacer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 AMC Pacer weights approximately 265 kg more than 2005 Kia Spectra.
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 Kia Spectra, 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 77 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Kia Spectra. (145 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1978 AMC Pacer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Kia Spectra. 1978 AMC Pacer has automatic transmission and 2005 Kia Spectra has manual transmission. 2005 Kia Spectra 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 Kia Spectra | |
Make | AMC | Kia |
Model | Pacer | Spectra |
Year Released | 1978 | 2005 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3802 cc | 1594 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 90 HP | 100 HP |
Engine RPM | 3050 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 222 Nm | 145 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 95.2 mm | 78 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 88.8 mm | 83.4 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1359 kg | 1094 kg |
Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 50 L |