1978 AMC Pacer vs. 2011 Cadillac DTS
To start off, 2011 Cadillac DTS is newer by 33 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 4,600 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Cadillac DTS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Cadillac DTS (275 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 185 more horse power than 1978 AMC Pacer. (90 HP @ 3050 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Cadillac DTS should accelerate faster than 1978 AMC Pacer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Cadillac DTS weights approximately 459 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, 2011 Cadillac DTS, 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, 2011 Cadillac DTS (400 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 178 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 AMC Pacer. (222 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2011 Cadillac DTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 AMC Pacer.
Compare all specifications:
1978 AMC Pacer | 2011 Cadillac DTS | |
Make | AMC | Cadillac |
Model | Pacer | DTS |
Year Released | 1978 | 2011 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3802 cc | 4600 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 90 HP | 275 HP |
Engine RPM | 3050 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 222 Nm | 400 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1359 kg | 1818 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 5273 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1900 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1463 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2936 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 68 L |