1978 AMC Pacer vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf 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, 1978 AMC Pacer (110 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 AMC Pacer should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 27 kg more 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 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 1978 AMC Pacer (265 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (250 Nm @ 190 RPM). This means 1978 AMC Pacer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. 1978 AMC Pacer has automatic transmission and 2008 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2008 Volkswagen Golf 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 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | AMC | Volkswagen |
| Model | Pacer | Golf |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4228 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 265 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 190 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1660 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 55 L |
