Who Is The Old Pacer In The State Farm Commercial? The Mystery Solved!

The “old Pacer” featured in the State Farm commercial is not a singular “who,” but rather a 1977 AMC Pacer, a truly iconic and, let’s be honest, quirky car from the American Motors Corporation. It is the visual centerpiece of a comedic skit emphasizing State Farm’s unwavering commitment, even to vehicles considered vintage, unusual, or perhaps a bit…dated.

The Allure of the Pacer: More Than Just a Car

The AMC Pacer. Just uttering the name conjures up images of the 1970s, bell-bottoms, and a certain unapologetic willingness to be different. Designed as a “small wide car,” the Pacer was envisioned as a revolutionary step forward in automotive design, emphasizing safety and interior space. It was supposed to be the car of the future. While it didn’t quite achieve that lofty goal, it certainly left its mark.

The Pacer’s distinctive look, with its vast expanse of glass and rounded, almost cartoonish shape, made it instantly recognizable. While some lauded its unconventional aesthetics, others found it…well, less appealing. Regardless of personal taste, there’s no denying the Pacer’s uniqueness.

The State Farm Commercial: A Vehicle for Humor and Assurance

The State Farm commercial leverages the Pacer’s inherent oddity for comedic effect. In the spot, the car is presented as a testament to State Farm’s dedication to its customers. The implication is clear: no matter how unconventional or old your vehicle is, State Farm has you covered. The humor arises from the contrast between the Pacer’s outdated appearance and State Farm’s modern, reliable service. It’s a clever way to highlight the company’s longstanding promise of comprehensive insurance coverage. This is not just about insuring cars; it’s about insuring drivers, regardless of what they drive.

The message is subtle but powerful: State Farm is there for you, even when your car is, shall we say, “a character.” It’s a testament to their comprehensive coverage and customer commitment. It’s a visual punchline that resonates because most viewers have a connection to a car that was less than perfect, or simply from a time long past.

Why the Pacer? A Symbol of Longevity and Commitment

Choosing the AMC Pacer wasn’t a random decision. It was a deliberate choice that spoke volumes about the message State Farm wanted to convey.

• Nostalgia: The Pacer evokes strong feelings of nostalgia for a specific era. This connection helps the commercial resonate with a broader audience.
• Unconventionality: The Pacer’s unique design makes it instantly memorable. It’s not just another car; it’s the Pacer.
• Durability (Implied): While not explicitly stated, the fact that the Pacer is still running (or at least appears to be) implies a level of durability and longevity, mirroring State Farm’s own long history.
• Comedy: Let’s be honest, the Pacer is inherently funny. Its appearance is almost a caricature of a 1970s car, making it an ideal comedic foil.

Ultimately, the Pacer serves as a powerful symbol of State Farm’s commitment to its customers, regardless of their circumstances or the age of their vehicle. It’s a clever, memorable, and effective advertising strategy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What year was the AMC Pacer in the State Farm commercial?

While the commercial doesn’t explicitly state the year, the Pacer in the State Farm commercial appears to be a 1977 AMC Pacer. The body style and features are consistent with that model year.

2. Why did AMC make the Pacer?

AMC developed the Pacer as a response to increasing concerns about safety and fuel efficiency in the early 1970s. They aimed to create a small, fuel-efficient car with a focus on safety and interior space. The “wide small car” concept was a direct result of this goal.

3. Was the AMC Pacer a failure?

The Pacer’s sales declined significantly after its initial popularity. While it wasn’t an outright failure, it didn’t achieve its original sales targets. The lack of a planned rotary engine and changing consumer preferences contributed to its eventual discontinuation in 1980.

4. How much did a new AMC Pacer cost?

The base price of a new AMC Pacer in 1975 was around $3,299. Of course, prices varied depending on optional equipment and model year.

5. What engine did the AMC Pacer have?

The AMC Pacer was available with a range of engines, including inline-six and V8 options. The most common engines were the 232 cubic inch (3.8L) and 258 cubic inch (4.2L) inline-six engines.

6. Why does the Pacer have so much glass?

The Pacer’s extensive glass area was a key design feature intended to improve visibility and create a more open and airy interior. It was part of AMC’s vision for a “small wide car” with a focus on safety and a unique driving experience.

7. Is the AMC Pacer a collector’s car?

Yes, the AMC Pacer has become increasingly popular as a collector’s car, particularly among enthusiasts of vintage and unusual vehicles. Its unique design and rarity make it a sought-after item for collectors.

8. How many AMC Pacers were made?

Over its production run from 1975 to 1980, approximately 145,528 AMC Pacers were manufactured.

9. What other cars are similar to the AMC Pacer?

There aren’t really any truly similar cars to the Pacer. It’s in a class of its own in terms of design. However, cars like the Chevrolet Vega or the Ford Pinto were also small cars from the same era, albeit far more conventional in styling.

10. What other State Farm commercials feature classic cars?

State Farm often uses classic cars in their commercials to evoke nostalgia and demonstrate their commitment to insuring a wide range of vehicles. Other examples include commercials featuring vintage muscle cars, pickup trucks, and even motorcycles.

11. Where can I find an AMC Pacer for sale?

You can find AMC Pacers for sale on various online platforms such as eBay, Craigslist, and specialized classic car websites. Auto auction sites like Bring a Trailer also frequently feature Pacers.

12. Did the State Farm commercial increase the value of AMC Pacers?

While it’s difficult to directly attribute a specific value increase solely to the State Farm commercial, it undoubtedly increased public awareness and interest in the AMC Pacer. This increased attention likely contributed to its growing popularity and value as a collector’s item. The commercial serves as a reminder of a unique and often overlooked piece of automotive history, boosting its appeal to enthusiasts and collectors alike.