1978 AMC Pacer vs. 2009 Saab 05-Sep
To start off, 2009 Saab 05-Sep 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 Saab 05-Sep (260 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 150 more horse power than 1978 AMC Pacer. (110 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Saab 05-Sep should accelerate faster than 1978 AMC Pacer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Saab 05-Sep weights approximately 206 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 Saab 05-Sep, 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 Saab 05-Sep (350 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 AMC Pacer. (265 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 Saab 05-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 AMC Pacer.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 AMC Pacer | 2009 Saab 05-Sep | |
| Make | AMC | Saab |
| Model | Pacer | 05-Sep |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4228 cc | 2288 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 260 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 265 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.2 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 99 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 1574 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 70 L |
