1978 AMC Pacer vs. 2009 Dodge Nitro
To start off, 2009 Dodge Nitro 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 3,952 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Nitro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Nitro (260 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 170 more horse power than 1978 AMC Pacer. (90 HP @ 3050 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Nitro should accelerate faster than 1978 AMC Pacer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Nitro weights approximately 1178 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 Nitro 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 Nitro 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 Nitro (360 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 138 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 AMC Pacer. (222 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Nitro 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 Nitro | |
Make | AMC | Dodge |
Model | Pacer | Nitro |
Year Released | 1978 | 2009 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3802 cc | 3952 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 90 HP | 260 HP |
Engine RPM | 3050 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 222 Nm | 360 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1359 kg | 2537 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4550 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1780 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2770 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 74 L |