1978 AMC Pacer vs. 2009 BMW 525
To start off, 2009 BMW 525 is newer by 31 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, 2009 BMW 525 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 1978 AMC Pacer. (110 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 1978 AMC Pacer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 525 weights approximately 197 kg more than 1978 AMC Pacer. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW 525 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, 2009 BMW 525 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, 1978 AMC Pacer (265 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 525. (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1978 AMC Pacer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 525.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 AMC Pacer | 2009 BMW 525 | |
| Make | AMC | BMW |
| Model | Pacer | 525 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4228 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 265 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.2 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 99 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 1565 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 70 L |
