1978 AMC Pacer vs. 2009 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 2009 Hyundai Sonata 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 3,802 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 AMC Pacer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Hyundai Sonata (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1978 AMC Pacer. (90 HP @ 3050 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1978 AMC Pacer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 321 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 1978 AMC Pacer is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1978 AMC Pacer. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Hyundai Sonata, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Hyundai Sonata (305 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 AMC Pacer. (222 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2009 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 AMC Pacer.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 AMC Pacer | 2009 Hyundai Sonata | |
| Make | AMC | Hyundai |
| Model | Pacer | Sonata |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3802 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3050 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1359 kg | 1680 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 70 L |
