1978 AMC Pacer vs. 2006 Jeep Wrangler
To start off, 2006 Jeep Wrangler 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 3,966 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Jeep Wrangler is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Jeep Wrangler (175 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1978 AMC Pacer. (90 HP @ 3050 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Jeep Wrangler should accelerate faster than 1978 AMC Pacer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Jeep Wrangler weights approximately 505 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 2006 Jeep Wrangler 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, 2006 Jeep Wrangler 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, 2006 Jeep Wrangler (297 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 AMC Pacer. (222 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2006 Jeep Wrangler will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 AMC Pacer. 1978 AMC Pacer has automatic transmission and 2006 Jeep Wrangler has manual transmission. 2006 Jeep Wrangler 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 | 2006 Jeep Wrangler | |
| Make | AMC | Jeep |
| Model | Pacer | Wrangler |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3802 cc | 3966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3050 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 297 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.2 mm | 98.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.8 mm | 86.7 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1359 kg | 1864 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1810 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2380 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 72 L |
