1978 AMC Pacer vs. 2008 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 2008 Hyundai Sonata 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 4,228 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 AMC Pacer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Hyundai Sonata (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1978 AMC Pacer. (110 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1978 AMC Pacer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 318 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 Hyundai Sonata, 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 Hyundai Sonata (305 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 AMC Pacer. (265 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 AMC Pacer. 1978 AMC Pacer has automatic transmission and 2008 Hyundai Sonata has manual transmission. 2008 Hyundai Sonata 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 Hyundai Sonata | |
| Make | AMC | Hyundai |
| Model | Pacer | Sonata |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4228 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 265 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 17.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 1686 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 70 L |
