1978 AMC Pacer vs. 2008 BMW 318
To start off, 2008 BMW 318 is newer by 30 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, 2008 BMW 318 (127 HP @ 3750 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1978 AMC Pacer. (90 HP @ 3050 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1978 AMC Pacer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 318 weights approximately 36 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1978 AMC Pacer (222 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 318. (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1978 AMC Pacer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 318. 1978 AMC Pacer has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW 318 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 | 2008 BMW 318 | |
Make | AMC | BMW |
Model | Pacer | 318 |
Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3802 cc | 1995 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 90 HP | 127 HP |
Engine RPM | 3050 RPM | 3750 RPM |
Torque | 222 Nm | 200 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 3750 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1359 kg | 1395 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4490 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2730 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 63 L |