2008 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1978 AMC Pacer
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 30 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, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1978 AMC Pacer. (90 HP @ 3050 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1978 AMC Pacer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 246 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, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159, 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, 1978 AMC Pacer (222 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Alfa Romeo 159. (190 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1978 AMC Pacer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Alfa Romeo 159. 1978 AMC Pacer has automatic transmission and 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 has manual transmission. 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 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:
| 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1978 AMC Pacer | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | AMC |
| Model | 159 | Pacer |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1858 cc | 3802 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 3050 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 222 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 95.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 88.8 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1605 kg | 1359 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1960 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 83 L |
