1978 AMC Pacer vs. 2009 Cadillac BLS
To start off, 2009 Cadillac BLS 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 3,802 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 AMC Pacer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Cadillac BLS (252 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 1978 AMC Pacer. (90 HP @ 3050 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac BLS should accelerate faster than 1978 AMC Pacer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Cadillac BLS weights approximately 276 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 Cadillac BLS, 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 Cadillac BLS (365 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 143 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 AMC Pacer. (222 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2009 Cadillac BLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 AMC Pacer. 1978 AMC Pacer has automatic transmission and 2009 Cadillac BLS has manual transmission. 2009 Cadillac BLS 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 | 2009 Cadillac BLS | |
Make | AMC | Cadillac |
Model | Pacer | BLS |
Year Released | 1978 | 2009 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3802 cc | 2792 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 90 HP | 252 HP |
Engine RPM | 3050 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 222 Nm | 365 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 95.2 mm | 89.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 88.8 mm | 74.8 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1359 kg | 1635 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4690 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2680 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 58 L |