2004 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1978 AMC Pacer
To start off, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 26 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, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 (113 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1978 AMC Pacer. (90 HP @ 3050 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1978 AMC Pacer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 46 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 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, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156, 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, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 (275 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 AMC Pacer. (222 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 AMC Pacer. 1978 AMC Pacer has automatic transmission and 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 has manual transmission. 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 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:
| 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1978 AMC Pacer | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | AMC |
| Model | 156 | Pacer |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1969 cc | 3802 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3050 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 222 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 95.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 88.8 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 1359 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1960 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 83 L |
