1978 AMC Pacer vs. 2006 Nissan Pathfinder
To start off, 2006 Nissan Pathfinder 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 3,802 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 AMC Pacer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Nissan Pathfinder (172 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1978 AMC Pacer. (90 HP @ 3050 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Nissan Pathfinder should accelerate faster than 1978 AMC Pacer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Nissan Pathfinder weights approximately 876 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 Nissan Pathfinder 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 Nissan Pathfinder 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 Nissan Pathfinder (403 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 181 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 AMC Pacer. (222 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2006 Nissan Pathfinder will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 AMC Pacer.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 AMC Pacer | 2006 Nissan Pathfinder | |
| Make | AMC | Nissan |
| Model | Pacer | Pathfinder |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3802 cc | 2488 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 172 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3050 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 403 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.2 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.8 mm | 100 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1359 kg | 2235 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 80 L |
