AMC Pacer. 1975–80 (prod. 280,000 approx.). 3-door sedan, 3-door wagon. F/R, 232, 258 in³ (6 cyl. OHV), 304 in³ (V8 OHV). Abbreviated American sedan, wider than a Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow with barely more interior room than an Austin Maxi. Called worst car ever tested by Autocar & Motor in 1988, though it had its fans as production figure attests. More an example of gaudy styling, though large glasshouse (from a 1971 concept idea) meant practicality. Low bonnetline hinted at AMC’s original intention to equip the Pacer with a GM Wankel engine, but when it failed to materialize, the car was equipped with large (by non-American standards) sixes and even a V8, which hardly made it an economy vehicle. However, it was very aerodynamic as a result. Rear space intruded by where wheelarches were. Gained fame probably later in life but not loved outside the US. VAM Pacer in México from 1976; wagon from 1977.

Manufacturing locations: Kenosha, Wisconsin, USA; México City, México

Marque: AMC

Off-site link

• The Pacer Page