1978 AMC Pacer vs. 2005 Renault Megane
To start off, 2005 Renault Megane 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, 1978 AMC Pacer (110 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 2005 Renault Megane. (94 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 AMC Pacer should accelerate faster than 2005 Renault Megane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 AMC Pacer weights approximately 213 kg more than 2005 Renault Megane. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 Renault Megane, 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 138 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Renault Megane. (127 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1978 AMC Pacer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Renault Megane. 1978 AMC Pacer has automatic transmission and 2005 Renault Megane has manual transmission. 2005 Renault Megane 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 Renault Megane | |
| Make | AMC | Renault |
| Model | Pacer | Megane |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4228 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 265 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.2 mm | 75.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 99 mm | 77 mm |
| 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 | 1155 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2490 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 60 L |
