1978 AMC Pacer vs. 2011 Opel Meriva

To start off, 2011 Opel Meriva 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 4,228 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 AMC Pacer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 AMC Pacer (110 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2011 Opel Meriva. (99 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 AMC Pacer should accelerate faster than 2011 Opel Meriva.

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 Opel Meriva, 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 135 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Opel Meriva. (130 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1978 AMC Pacer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Opel Meriva. 1978 AMC Pacer has automatic transmission and 2011 Opel Meriva has manual transmission. 2011 Opel Meriva 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 2011 Opel Meriva
Make AMC Opel
Model Pacer Meriva
Year Released 1978 2011
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4228 cc 1398 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 110 HP 99 HP
Engine RPM 3500 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 265 Nm 130 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 4000 RPM
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 5 doors


 

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