1978 AMC Pacer vs. 2013 Chevrolet Traverse
To start off, 2013 Chevrolet Traverse is newer by 35 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, 2013 Chevrolet Traverse (277 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 187 more horse power than 1978 AMC Pacer. (90 HP @ 3050 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Chevrolet Traverse should accelerate faster than 1978 AMC Pacer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Chevrolet Traverse weights approximately 889 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 2013 Chevrolet Traverse 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, 2013 Chevrolet Traverse 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, 2013 Chevrolet Traverse (361 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 AMC Pacer. (222 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2013 Chevrolet Traverse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 AMC Pacer.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 AMC Pacer | 2013 Chevrolet Traverse | |
| Make | AMC | Chevrolet |
| Model | Pacer | Traverse |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3802 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 277 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3050 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 361 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.2 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.8 mm | 85 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1359 kg | 2248 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 5173 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1991 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1846 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 3020 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 83 L |
