1978 AMC Pacer vs. 2012 Subaru Outback
To start off, 2012 Subaru Outback 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 Subaru Outback (170 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1978 AMC Pacer. (110 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Subaru Outback should accelerate faster than 1978 AMC Pacer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Subaru Outback weights approximately 187 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 Subaru Outback is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 AMC Pacer. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Subaru Outback 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 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Subaru Outback. (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1978 AMC Pacer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Subaru Outback. 1978 AMC Pacer has automatic transmission and 2012 Subaru Outback has manual transmission. 2012 Subaru Outback 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 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | AMC | Subaru |
| Model | Pacer | Outback |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4228 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 265 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 1555 kg |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 70 L |
