1978 AMC Pacer vs. 2009 Ford Mustang
To start off, 2009 Ford Mustang 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 4,009 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Mustang (210 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 1978 AMC Pacer. (90 HP @ 3050 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1978 AMC Pacer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 AMC Pacer weights approximately 393 kg more than 2009 Ford Mustang.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 Ford Mustang (325 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 AMC Pacer. (222 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Mustang 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 Ford Mustang has manual transmission. 2009 Ford Mustang 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 Ford Mustang | |
Make | AMC | Ford |
Model | Pacer | Mustang |
Year Released | 1978 | 2009 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3802 cc | 4009 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 90 HP | 210 HP |
Engine RPM | 3050 RPM | 5300 RPM |
Torque | 222 Nm | 325 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1359 kg | 966 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4770 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1880 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1410 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2730 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 61 L |