1978 AMC Pacer vs. 2010 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2010 Volkswagen Beetle 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 4,228 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 AMC Pacer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Volkswagen Beetle (114 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1978 AMC Pacer. (110 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1978 AMC Pacer.
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, 2010 Volkswagen Beetle, 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, 1978 AMC Pacer (265 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 93 more torque (in Nm) than 2010 Volkswagen Beetle. (172 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1978 AMC Pacer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2010 Volkswagen Beetle. 1978 AMC Pacer has automatic transmission and 2010 Volkswagen Beetle has manual transmission. 2010 Volkswagen Beetle 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 | 2010 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | AMC | Volkswagen |
Model | Pacer | Beetle |
Year Released | 1978 | 2010 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4228 cc | 1984 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 110 HP | 114 HP |
Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 265 Nm | 172 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 55 L |