1978 AMC Pacer vs. 2008 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2008 Chevrolet Malibu 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 Chevrolet Malibu (164 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1978 AMC Pacer. (90 HP @ 3050 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 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, 1978 AMC Pacer (222 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Chevrolet Malibu. (216 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1978 AMC Pacer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 AMC Pacer | 2008 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | AMC | Chevrolet |
| Model | Pacer | Malibu |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3802 cc | 2401 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 164 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3050 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| 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 | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 61 L |
