1978 AMC Pacer vs. 2012 Audi A3
To start off, 2012 Audi A3 is newer by 34 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, 2012 Audi A3 (140 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1978 AMC Pacer. (110 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1978 AMC Pacer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Audi A3 weights approximately 137 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, 2012 Audi A3, 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, 2012 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 AMC Pacer. (265 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2012 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 AMC Pacer.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 AMC Pacer | 2012 Audi A3 | |
| Make | AMC | Audi |
| Model | Pacer | A3 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4228 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 265 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 1505 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1763 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1422 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 55 L |
