A wide, small car, the Pacer, will be introduced in early March by American Motors. It is designed to appeal to a wide range of car buyers.

The exterior of the car is not traditional in its configuration. It is wider than a Chevelle and shorter than a Vega. It has more unrestricted vision than any other car on the road. It has two large asymmetrical doors. The curb-side door is four inches longer than the driver's door for easy entry and exit of rear seat passengers. Its exterior dimensions and short wheelbase-100 inches-facilitate easy parking and maneuverability.

The Pacer weights 2995 pounds and is powered by the economy 232 and 258 CID six-cylinder engines and, therefore, will get similar gas mileage to the AMC Hornet. Furthermore, a 22-gallon fuel tank gives the Pacer a range f more than 500 miles under highway driving conditions. An overdrive unit is available for even greater economy of operation. Its aerodynamic shape results in a 12-percent decrease in air resistance and thereby provides better fuel economy at highway speeds.

All current safety requirements have been provided for in this car, and its design will accept future safety developments. Also, damage prevention has been provided, including large wrap-around bumper and protective strips along the sides of the car to minimize parking lot damage. The engines meet all current pollution control standards.

The two-door Pacer, with a 100-inch wheelbase, comes in three versions-a standard model, a sporty "X" and a luxury D/L model. It has an overall length of 171.5 inches, making it easier to park and maneuver.

A large rear hatch housing the rear window provides easy access to the luggage area behind the rear seat. The back seat can be folded forward for added cargo carrying capacity.

A 22-gallon fuel tank gives the Pacer a range of more than 500 miles under highway driving conditions. In addition, its aerodynamic shape results in a 12-percent decrease in air resistance, thus providing better fuel economy at highway speeds.

Excellent handling and ride characteristic are made possible by affront tread wider than many larger cars, giving the car a road-hugging quality. This, together with rack-and-pinion steering, substantially improves driver control.

A new isolated front and rear suspension provides a large car ride.

Pacer offers a full range of performance, convenience and appearance options, including front manual and power-operated disc brakes, steel belted radial tires, side-door vent windows, rear window defogger, rear window washier and wide-sweep wiper and many others.