AMC Pacer

vs

AMC Concord

USA vs USA — 1975 vs 1978

AMC Pacer (1975)
AMC Concord (1978)
Specifications
Pacer D/L WagonConcord AMX
Horsepower120 hp140 hp
Torque220 lb-ft270 lb-ft
Engine Size4,228 cc5,898 cc
0-60 mph14.5 sec11.5 sec
Top Speed90 mph103 mph
¼ Mile19.8 sec18.0 sec
Weight3,100 lbs3,300 lbs
Wheelbase2,540 mm2,743 mm
Length4,446 mm4,826 mm
Units Produced280,0002,540
Original MSRP$4,299$5,899
Value (Excellent)$22,000$28,000
Collectibility6/106/10
Rarity5/107/10
The Verdict

The 1978 AMC Concord AMX emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1975 AMC Pacer D/L Wagon counters with lighter weight, better value, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.

Overview

The 1975 AMC Pacer D/L Wagon and 1978 AMC Concord AMX share a manufacturer in AMC, but that's where the similarities get interesting. These two models reveal the versatility and ambition of the AMC brand. The 1978 AMC Concord AMX holds a clear advantage in raw power with 140 hp compared to 120 hp, a 20-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the AMC Pacer uses a Inline-6 OHV (AMC 258) displacing 4,228 cc, while the AMC Concord relies on a V8 OHV with 5,898 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1978 AMC Concord AMX edges ahead at 11.5 seconds versus 14.5 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 2,540 units built, the 1978 AMC Concord AMX is considerably scarcer than the AMC Pacer's 280,000 examples.