1978 AMC Pacer vs. 2008 Buick Enclave
To start off, 2008 Buick Enclave 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 Buick Enclave (275 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 185 more horse power than 1978 AMC Pacer. (90 HP @ 3050 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Buick Enclave should accelerate faster than 1978 AMC Pacer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Buick Enclave weights approximately 501 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 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, 2008 Buick Enclave, 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, 2008 Buick Enclave (340 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 118 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 AMC Pacer. (222 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2008 Buick Enclave will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 AMC Pacer.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 AMC Pacer | 2008 Buick Enclave | |
| Make | AMC | Buick |
| Model | Pacer | Enclave |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3802 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 275 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3050 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.2 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.8 mm | 86 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 8 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1359 kg | 1860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 5120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 2010 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 3030 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 64 L |
