1978 AMC Pacer vs. 2009 Dodge Ram
To start off, 2009 Dodge Ram 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 5,654 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Ram (345 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 235 more horse power than 1978 AMC Pacer. (110 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 1978 AMC Pacer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Ram 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 Ram 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 Ram 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 Ram (510 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 245 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 AMC Pacer. (265 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Ram 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 Ram | |
| Make | AMC | Dodge |
| Model | Pacer | Ram |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4228 cc | 5654 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 345 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 265 Nm | 510 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 1691 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 6350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 2000 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 4080 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 132 L |
