1978 AMC Pacer vs. 2004 Volvo S40
To start off, 2004 Volvo S40 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 Volvo S40 (170 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1978 AMC Pacer. (90 HP @ 3050 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1978 AMC Pacer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 AMC Pacer weights approximately 104 kg more than 2004 Volvo S40.
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 Volvo S40, 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 Volvo S40 (240 Nm) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 AMC Pacer. (222 Nm). This means 2004 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 AMC Pacer.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 AMC Pacer | 2004 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | AMC | Volvo |
| Model | Pacer | S40 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3802 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3050 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.2 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.8 mm | 89 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1359 kg | 1255 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 60 L |
