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 3,802 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 AMC Pacer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Hyundai Sonata (162 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1978 AMC Pacer. (90 HP @ 3050 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. 1978 AMC Pacer weights approximately 301 kg more than 2008 Hyundai Sonata.
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, both vehicles can yield 222 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
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 | 3802 cc | 2359 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 162 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3050 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 222 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1359 kg | 1058 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 67 L |
