1978 AMC Pacer vs. 2005 Toyota Tacoma
To start off, 2005 Toyota Tacoma 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 Toyota Tacoma (245 HP @ 3400 RPM) has 135 more horse power than 1978 AMC Pacer. (110 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Toyota Tacoma should accelerate faster than 1978 AMC Pacer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Toyota Tacoma weights approximately 482 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 Tacoma 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 Tacoma 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 Tacoma (382 Nm) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 AMC Pacer. (265 Nm). This means 2005 Toyota Tacoma will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 AMC Pacer.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 AMC Pacer | 2005 Toyota Tacoma | |
| Make | AMC | Toyota |
| Model | Pacer | Tacoma |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4228 cc | 3950 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 245 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Torque | 265 Nm | 382 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.2 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 99 mm | 95 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 1850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 5290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 3250 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 79 L |
