1978 AMC Pacer vs. 2006 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 28 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, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu (201 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 1978 AMC Pacer. (110 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1978 AMC Pacer.
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, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu, 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, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu (300 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 AMC Pacer. (265 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2006 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 AMC Pacer.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 AMC Pacer | 2006 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | AMC | Chevrolet |
| Model | Pacer | Malibu |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4228 cc | 3491 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 265 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.2 mm | 94.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 99 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 61 L |
