1978 AMC Pacer vs. 2012 Renault Clio

To start off, 2012 Renault Clio 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, 1978 AMC Pacer (110 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 2012 Renault Clio. (60 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 AMC Pacer should accelerate faster than 2012 Renault Clio.

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 Renault Clio, 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 171 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Renault Clio. (94 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1978 AMC Pacer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Renault Clio. 1978 AMC Pacer has automatic transmission and 2012 Renault Clio has manual transmission. 2012 Renault Clio 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 Renault Clio
Make AMC Renault
Model Pacer Clio
Year Released 1978 2012
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4228 cc 1149 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 110 HP 60 HP
Engine RPM 3500 RPM 5250 RPM
Torque 265 Nm 94 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 2500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 95.2 mm 69 mm
Engine Stroke Size 99 mm 76.8 mm
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Length 4360 mm 3780 mm
Vehicle Width 1960 mm 1420 mm
Vehicle Height 1370 mm 1650 mm
Wheelbase Size 2550 mm 2480 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 83 L 50 L