1978 AMC Pacer vs. 2008 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2008 Nissan Altima 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 Nissan Altima (270 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 180 more horse power than 1978 AMC Pacer. (90 HP @ 3050 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Nissan Altima 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 Nissan Altima, 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 Nissan Altima (350 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 128 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 AMC Pacer. (222 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2008 Nissan Altima 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 Nissan Altima has manual transmission. 2008 Nissan Altima 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 Nissan Altima | |
Make | AMC | Nissan |
Model | Pacer | Altima |
Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3802 cc | 3490 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 90 HP | 270 HP |
Engine RPM | 3050 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 222 Nm | 350 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4640 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1410 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2680 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 76 L |