1978 AMC Pacer vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S 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 3,802 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 AMC Pacer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S (302 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 212 more horse power than 1978 AMC Pacer. (90 HP @ 3050 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1978 AMC Pacer.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 Mercedes-Benz S (370 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 148 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 AMC Pacer. (222 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 AMC Pacer.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 AMC Pacer | 2011 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | AMC | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Pacer | S |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3802 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3050 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 5096 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 3165 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 90 L |
