1978 AMC Pacer vs. 2005 Saturn ION
To start off, 2005 Saturn ION 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 Saturn ION (140 HP) has 30 more horse power than 1978 AMC Pacer. (110 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Saturn ION should accelerate faster than 1978 AMC Pacer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 AMC Pacer weights approximately 105 kg more than 2005 Saturn ION.
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 Saturn ION, 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) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Saturn ION. (197 Nm). This means 1978 AMC Pacer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Saturn ION.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 AMC Pacer | 2005 Saturn ION | |
| Make | AMC | Saturn |
| Model | Pacer | ION |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4228 cc | 2195 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 140 HP |
| Torque | 265 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.2 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 99 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 1263 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 49 L |
