1978 AMC Pacer vs. 2009 Hummer H3
To start off, 2009 Hummer H3 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 Hummer H3 (242 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 1978 AMC Pacer. (110 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Hummer H3 should accelerate faster than 1978 AMC Pacer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Hummer H3 weights approximately 832 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 Hummer H3 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 Hummer H3 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 Hummer H3 (328 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 AMC Pacer. (265 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 Hummer H3 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 Hummer H3 has manual transmission. 2009 Hummer H3 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 Hummer H3 | |
| Make | AMC | Hummer |
| Model | Pacer | H3 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4228 cc | 3651 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 242 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 265 Nm | 328 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.2 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 99 mm | 102 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 2200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 2000 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 87 L |
