1978 AMC Pacer vs. 2011 Nissan Versa
To start off, 2011 Nissan Versa 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 Nissan Versa (109 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1978 AMC Pacer. (90 HP @ 3050 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Nissan Versa should accelerate faster than 1978 AMC Pacer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 AMC Pacer weights approximately 293 kg more than 2011 Nissan Versa.
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 Nissan Versa, 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 (222 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Nissan Versa. (145 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1978 AMC Pacer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Nissan Versa.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 AMC Pacer | 2011 Nissan Versa | |
| Make | AMC | Nissan |
| Model | Pacer | Versa |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3802 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3050 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1359 kg | 1066 kg |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 41 L |
