1978 AMC Pacer vs. 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton 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 Phaeton (330 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 220 more horse power than 1978 AMC Pacer. (110 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 1978 AMC Pacer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 AMC Pacer weights approximately 137 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 AMC Pacer. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton will offer significantly more control. 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 Volkswagen Phaeton (430 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 165 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 AMC Pacer. (265 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 AMC Pacer.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 AMC Pacer | 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | AMC | Volkswagen |
| Model | Pacer | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4228 cc | 4172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 330 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 265 Nm | 430 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 1231 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 5180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 90 L |
