1978 AMC Pacer vs. 2011 Renault Duster
To start off, 2011 Renault Duster 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 Renault Duster (106 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1978 AMC Pacer. (90 HP @ 3050 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Renault Duster should accelerate faster than 1978 AMC Pacer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 AMC Pacer weights approximately 159 kg more than 2011 Renault Duster.
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 Renault Duster, 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 45 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Renault Duster. (177 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1978 AMC Pacer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Renault Duster. 1978 AMC Pacer has automatic transmission and 2011 Renault Duster has manual transmission. 2011 Renault Duster 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 Renault Duster | |
| Make | AMC | Renault |
| Model | Pacer | Duster |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3802 cc | 1461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3050 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 177 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1359 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4315 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1822 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2673 mm |
