1978 AMC Pacer vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf 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 3,802 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 AMC Pacer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (104 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1978 AMC Pacer. (90 HP @ 3050 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1978 AMC Pacer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 AMC Pacer weights approximately 45 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Golf.
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 Volkswagen Golf, 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 Volkswagen Golf (250 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 AMC Pacer. (222 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 AMC Pacer. 1978 AMC Pacer has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen Golf 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 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | AMC | Volkswagen |
Model | Pacer | Golf |
Year Released | 1978 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3802 cc | 1600 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 90 HP | 104 HP |
Engine RPM | 3050 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 222 Nm | 250 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1359 kg | 1314 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4199 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1786 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2578 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 55 L |