[RIP]

Just want to expand on one of jsintons tips. Like most, I've always known the laws of physics dictate driving slower boosts mileage no matter what others say. I recently had a perfect opportunity to put it to the test. I had to drive a 22 mile stretch of flat deserted desert road several times back and forth the other day and was in no hurry. Zero traffic and a moderate hill in the middle and two huge sweeping curves. One stop sign. Never needed the A/C. Saw little to no wind. I used both the cummulative and spot mpg readout on the upper display.

The first trip I set the cruise at 70 mph. I averaged 22.8 mpg. The second trip I set the cruise at 55 mph and averaged 24.0 mpg. The third trip I set the cruise at 45 mph and averaged 26.4 mpg. The forth trip I set the cruise at 40 mph and averaged 25.9 mpg.

Physics won the test. From those numbers it appears somewhere between 40 and 45 mph is about the most efficient speed you can drive. Practicle? Probably not for most but, if the price of gas shoots through the roof, it's an option. Was interesting to see mileage decreased at 40 mph. Just food for thought. Cheers.

96GC 3.8 ltr 195K miles.

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A few more tips:
> When at a stop light, shift to neutral. A loaded engine will eat more gas at idle.
> Use the A/C only when you have to. I turn mine on only above 90 deg and keep it off on 10 mile or less trips.
> Play the lights. When you see a red light or a light thats' about to go red, take your foot off the pedal and coast. It's asinine to race up to a red light and jam on the brakes.
> Take your foot off the gas further away from stop signs.
> Do you realy need all the seats in the van all the time? Get rid of that excess weight.
> Make a list of what you need and take it with you. It will save that extra trip for something you forgot.
> Combine trips. Get that new pair of shoes, get that hair done, and arrange appointments around that family trip to the theater.

jsinton - Thanks for the great thread!