1978 AMC Pacer vs. 2009 Buick LaCrosse
To start off, 2009 Buick LaCrosse 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 5,325 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Buick LaCrosse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Buick LaCrosse (300 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 210 more horse power than 1978 AMC Pacer. (90 HP @ 3050 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Buick LaCrosse should accelerate faster than 1978 AMC Pacer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Buick LaCrosse weights approximately 499 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 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, 2009 Buick LaCrosse, 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, 2009 Buick LaCrosse (438 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 216 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 AMC Pacer. (222 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2009 Buick LaCrosse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 AMC Pacer.
Compare all specifications:
1978 AMC Pacer | 2009 Buick LaCrosse | |
Make | AMC | Buick |
Model | Pacer | LaCrosse |
Year Released | 1978 | 2009 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3802 cc | 5325 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 90 HP | 300 HP |
Engine RPM | 3050 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 222 Nm | 438 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1359 kg | 1858 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 5040 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2810 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 64 L |