1978 AMC Pacer vs. 2012 GMC Canyon
To start off, 2012 GMC Canyon 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 GMC Canyon (186 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1978 AMC Pacer. (110 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 GMC Canyon should accelerate faster than 1978 AMC Pacer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 GMC Canyon weights approximately 362 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 2012 GMC Canyon is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 AMC Pacer. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 GMC Canyon will offer significantly more control. 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 7 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 GMC Canyon. (258 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1978 AMC Pacer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 GMC Canyon. 1978 AMC Pacer has automatic transmission and 2012 GMC Canyon has manual transmission. 2012 GMC Canyon 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 | 2012 GMC Canyon | |
| Make | AMC | GMC |
| Model | Pacer | Canyon |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4228 cc | 2901 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 186 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 265 Nm | 258 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 1730 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 5270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 3210 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 72 L |
