1978 AMC Pacer vs. 2005 Opel Astra
To start off, 2005 Opel Astra 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 4,228 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 AMC Pacer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Opel Astra (123 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1978 AMC Pacer. (110 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1978 AMC Pacer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 AMC Pacer weights approximately 185 kg more than 2005 Opel Astra.
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 Opel Astra, 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 (265 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Opel Astra. (170 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1978 AMC Pacer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Opel Astra. 1978 AMC Pacer has automatic transmission and 2005 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2005 Opel Astra 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 Opel Astra | |
Make | AMC | Opel |
Model | Pacer | Astra |
Year Released | 1978 | 2005 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4228 cc | 1795 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 110 HP | 123 HP |
Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 265 Nm | 170 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 1183 kg |
Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2640 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 53 L |