1978 AMC Pacer vs. 2008 Dodge Ram
To start off, 2008 Dodge Ram 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 5,654 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Ram (345 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 255 more horse power than 1978 AMC Pacer. (90 HP @ 3050 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 1978 AMC Pacer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Ram weights approximately 332 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, 2008 Dodge Ram (509 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 287 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 AMC Pacer. (222 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 AMC Pacer.
Compare all specifications:
1978 AMC Pacer | 2008 Dodge Ram | |
Make | AMC | Dodge |
Model | Pacer | Ram |
Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3802 cc | 5654 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 90 HP | 345 HP |
Engine RPM | 3050 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 222 Nm | 509 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1359 kg | 1691 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 6350 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 2030 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1880 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 4080 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 132 L |