2005 Alfa Romeo 166 vs. 1978 AMC Pacer
To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo 166 is newer by 27 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, 2005 Alfa Romeo 166 (237 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 147 more horse power than 1978 AMC Pacer. (90 HP @ 3050 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo 166 should accelerate faster than 1978 AMC Pacer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Alfa Romeo 166 weights approximately 256 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, 2005 Alfa Romeo 166, 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, 2005 Alfa Romeo 166 (289 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 AMC Pacer. (222 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2005 Alfa Romeo 166 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 AMC Pacer.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo 166 | 1978 AMC Pacer | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | AMC |
| Model | 166 | Pacer |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 3802 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 237 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 3050 RPM |
| Torque | 289 Nm | 222 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 95.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 88.8 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 1359 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1960 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 83 L |
