1978 AMC Pacer vs. 2009 Dodge Dakota
To start off, 2009 Dodge Dakota 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 Dodge Dakota (211 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 1978 AMC Pacer. (110 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Dakota should accelerate faster than 1978 AMC Pacer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Dakota weights approximately 323 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 Dodge Dakota 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 Dodge Dakota 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, 2009 Dodge Dakota (319 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 AMC Pacer. (265 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Dakota will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 AMC Pacer.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 AMC Pacer | 2009 Dodge Dakota | |
| Make | AMC | Dodge |
| Model | Pacer | Dakota |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4228 cc | 3701 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 211 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 265 Nm | 319 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.2 mm | 87.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 99 mm | 100 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 9.7:1 |
| 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 | 1691 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 5560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 3340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 83 L |
