1978 AMC Pacer vs. 2010 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2010 Volkswagen Phaeton 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 Phaeton (237 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 1978 AMC Pacer. (110 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 1978 AMC Pacer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 947 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 Volkswagen Phaeton is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 AMC Pacer. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 Volkswagen Phaeton 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 Volkswagen Phaeton (500 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 235 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 AMC Pacer. (265 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2010 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 AMC Pacer.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 AMC Pacer | 2010 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | AMC | Volkswagen |
| Model | Pacer | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4228 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 237 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 265 Nm | 500 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 2315 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 5179 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1903 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1901 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 3001 mm |
