1978 AMC Pacer vs. 2005 Toyota RAV4
To start off, 2005 Toyota RAV4 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 Toyota RAV4 (113 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1978 AMC Pacer. (90 HP @ 3050 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Toyota RAV4 should accelerate faster than 1978 AMC Pacer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Toyota RAV4 weights approximately 111 kg more than 1978 AMC Pacer. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Toyota RAV4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 AMC Pacer. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Toyota RAV4 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2005 Toyota RAV4 (250 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 AMC Pacer. (222 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2005 Toyota RAV4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 AMC Pacer. 1978 AMC Pacer has automatic transmission and 2005 Toyota RAV4 has manual transmission. 2005 Toyota RAV4 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 Toyota RAV4 | |
| Make | AMC | Toyota |
| Model | Pacer | RAV4 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3802 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3050 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.2 mm | 82.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.8 mm | 94 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1359 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1700 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 57 L |
