1978 AMC Pacer vs. 2010 Dodge Dakota
To start off, 2010 Dodge Dakota is newer by 32 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, 2010 Dodge Dakota (210 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 1978 AMC Pacer. (90 HP @ 3050 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Dodge Dakota should accelerate faster than 1978 AMC Pacer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Dodge Dakota weights approximately 1178 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 2010 Dodge Dakota 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, 2010 Dodge Dakota 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, 2010 Dodge Dakota (319 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 AMC Pacer. (222 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2010 Dodge Dakota will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 AMC Pacer.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 AMC Pacer | 2010 Dodge Dakota | |
| Make | AMC | Dodge |
| Model | Pacer | Dakota |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3802 cc | 3700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3050 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 319 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1359 kg | 2537 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 5560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 3340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 83 L |
