Classic cars can be anything from rugged to elegant, but they are usually known to be fuel-guzzlers. These automobiles have a reputation for high fuel consumption, which makes them nearly unusable in today’s economy. Fortunately, not all classic cars require so much fuel to run.
If you are looking at buying a classic car for everyday use from Dyler, this article covers some fuel-efficient models you can consider.
What Is A Fuel Efficient Classic Car?
The fuel efficiency or mileage of a vehicle is the measure of the distance it can travel with a specific amount of fuel. For most classic cars, this figure is usually about 15mpg, which is not economic-friendly. A classic car with a good mileage should be able to offer from 20mpg and above.
Below are seven classic cars distinguished for their impressive fuel efficiency:
1. Honda Civic (1973-1979)
Honda is one brand that has made a name for themselves when it comes to making fuel-efficient everyday cars and the Honda Civic is one of them. This vehicle was introduced to the US market in 1973 just when the country was deep in an oil crisis. It was somewhat economical as it has a mileage of 40 mpg.
However, the models made after 1975 are ranked as the most fuel-efficient yet with a powerful Compound Vortex Controlled Combustion engine.
2. Honda CRX-HF (1988-1991)
This Honda model is the fuel-efficient version of the CRX hatchback. Its predecessor allowed its users to choose between a 1.4-liter engine and a 5-speed manual transmission or a 1.6-liter engine with a 4-speed auto gearbox and offered mileage of 32 mpg.
The CRX-HF, on the other hand, has a 1.5-liter engine and a 5-speed manual transmission. Its average fuel economy is 44 mpg, an impressive number for a vintage automobile.
3. Volkswagen Beetle (1968)
You may know the Volkswagen Beetle for its distinct round shape and sometimes click-clacking sounds but it is also one of the fuel-efficient classic cars from the 60s. It has an average mileage of 21-27 mpg but can go as high as 29 mpg if in pristine condition. This classic vehicle is powered by a rear-mounted 1500cc engine that produces 53 horsepower.
Apart from its fuel-efficient features, the Volkswagen Beetle makes up a vital part of the history of automobiles as it was one of the first rare-engine vehicles.
According to its birth certificate at the VW museum, this classic car was made in Germany on March 22, 1968.
4. Mercedes 240D (1977–1983)
The first thing you may likely notice about a Mercedes 240D is its sluggishness. It runs with a manual transmission and a four-cylinder 2.4L non-turbo diesel engine that produces about 70hp. Notwithstanding, this classic car stands amongst the most fuel-efficient automobiles of its time.
The average fuel economy of the 240D ranges between 28-30 mpg but it has been recorded to have more mileage on the highway when in good condition.
The Mercedes 240D is also known to be a classic way ahead of its time. Although it was manufactured between 1977 to 1983, it has an interior layout that is almost identical to the vehicles made in the early 2000s.
5. The Fiat ‘Nuova’ 500 (1957)
Most cars manufactured after the war were intended to be economical, and the Nuova 500 was one of them. It was introduced by the Fiat automobile in 1957 with an official mileage of 62.7mpg but is expected to give between 45-50mpg. This classic car model is regarded as one of the most inexpensive and practical cars of its time. It is powered by a 479 cc two-cylinder, air-cooled engine with a 4-speed manual transmission.
The unique design of the Nuova 500 earned its designer, Dante Giacosa, a Compasso d’Oro industrial design prize in 1959. The vehicle was also titled one of the purpose-designed city cars.
6. Chrysler K-Car (1981-1988)
The Chrysler K-car is a front-wheel-drive vehicle designed by Lee Iacocca. It is regarded as one of the first sets of small, economic cars introduced in the United States. This vehicle works with an air-cooled 2.3L flat-six engine, and three or four-speed manual transmission. It has an average fuel economy of 21-40 mpg which has been compared to that of a modern Toyota Corolla.
7. Citroën 2CV (1959)
In this list of fuel-efficient economic cars, the Citroën 2CV sets itself apart from the others. It was designed to be economical in all aspects including fuel management. It has a mileage of 40mpg and under much better conditions it goes as high as 60mpg.
The 2CV classic also has a reputation for being easy to maintain and repair, making them an excellent choice for everyday use.
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Conclusion
Listed above are some classic cars with impressive mileage that are great for today’s economy. Nevertheless, you can still take extra steps to improve the fuel efficiency of your classic car. You can invest in fuel-injection systems, fuel additives to keep the engine cleaner, and modern overdrive transmission.
