1978 AMC Pacer vs. 2008 Mazda DrifterX
To start off, 2008 Mazda DrifterX 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. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda DrifterX weights approximately 121 kg more than 1978 AMC Pacer.
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 Mazda DrifterX (257 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 AMC Pacer. (222 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda DrifterX 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 Mazda DrifterX has manual transmission. 2008 Mazda DrifterX 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 Mazda DrifterX | |
| Make | AMC | Mazda |
| Model | Pacer | DrifterX |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3802 cc | 2499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 257 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1359 kg | 1480 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 5010 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 80 L |
