1978 AMC Pacer vs. 2013 GMC Sierra
To start off, 2013 GMC Sierra 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 5,300 cc (8 cylinders), 2013 GMC Sierra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 GMC Sierra (322 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 232 more horse power than 1978 AMC Pacer. (90 HP @ 3050 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 GMC Sierra should accelerate faster than 1978 AMC Pacer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 GMC Sierra weights approximately 1075 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 GMC Sierra 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, 2013 GMC Sierra 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 GMC Sierra (472 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 250 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 AMC Pacer. (222 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2013 GMC Sierra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 AMC Pacer.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 AMC Pacer | 2013 GMC Sierra | |
| Make | AMC | GMC |
| Model | Pacer | Sierra |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3802 cc | 5300 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 322 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3050 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 472 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.2 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.8 mm | 92 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1359 kg | 2434 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 5847 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 2031 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1872 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 3645 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 98 L |
