1978 AMC Pacer vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle 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 Volkswagen New Beetle (150 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1978 AMC Pacer. (110 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1978 AMC Pacer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 AMC Pacer weights approximately 18 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle.
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 New Beetle, 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 34 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. (231 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1978 AMC Pacer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
1978 AMC Pacer | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | AMC | Volkswagen |
Model | Pacer | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4228 cc | 2480 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 110 HP | 150 HP |
Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 265 Nm | 231 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 1350 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4100 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 55 L |