1978 AMC Pacer vs. 2009 Mazda MPV
To start off, 2009 Mazda MPV 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 Mazda MPV (134 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1978 AMC Pacer. (90 HP @ 3050 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MPV should accelerate faster than 1978 AMC Pacer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda MPV weights approximately 351 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 Mazda MPV, 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 Mazda MPV (310 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 AMC Pacer. (222 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda MPV 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 Mazda MPV has manual transmission. 2009 Mazda MPV 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 Mazda MPV | |
| Make | AMC | Mazda |
| Model | Pacer | MPV |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3802 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3050 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.2 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.8 mm | 86 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1359 kg | 1710 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 75 L |
