looking for super fuel mileage rig!

[moremph]

I need something to get super fuel mileage, dont we all lol going to be driving 200 miles a day round trip. what is somethiong that you have had good luck with, it doesnt have to be a ctd, but it does have to be a diesel and pickup configuration. I have thought about a jetta tdi but still need a truck function. What about a tuned 2wd truck? Thanks for your input Travis

 

[Forrest Nearing]

how much truck function do you need?



obviously a 4cyl mini-truck will do better than a 3/4 ton diesel...



but if you NEED a diesel, go w/ a lowered 2wd 12v... either 1st gen or 2nd gen, keep the smoke to a minimum, give it a little more fuel, run a free flowing air intake and exhaust, and drive with a light foot, and it'll treat you well.



Forrest

 

[Vaughn MacKenzie]

A 2wd regular cab Cummins auto from '94-'95 seem to be good on fuel. Tuned right 25mpg is not unrealistic. I know of one that has gotten over 27 with the cruise set at 70.



With a lot of looking you could find a mid 80s Toyota 4x4 diesel, but very rare (I've only seen one). Also you might find an early '80s Isuzu P'up pickup, or Mazda (did they have a diesel?). Real gutless I'm sure but probably get good mileage. Another one is the Rabbit-based Volkswagen "pickup" but doubtfully will handle much weight.



Here's another possibility: A '78-'81 1/2-Ton Chevy truck with the [ahem!] Olds 5. 7L diesel Am I nuts? Most likely, but a guy on the Diesel Page has a built Olds 5. 7 in his 1/2T Chevy and swears by it. It's not very fast, but has turned 30mpg on the highway at 65mph With the DX block, ARP main and head studs, the Olds diesel will do OK with proper feeding and care (some '81-up 5. 7s reportedly have lasted 300-400k).



Vaughn

 

[jandtjil]

Volkswagen Rabbit Diesels are available, but finding one in pristine shape is tough. Pretty dependable and great mileage. Wow, they made a Diesel Ranger? Cool!



JJ

 

[Gonzo 1066]

I would hunt for a V Dub Jetta or Pisat turbo diesel. My brother in law had a Pisat and got a hand figured 48 to 58 mpg on the highway.

 

[MFranz]

What about that Diesel Motorcycle the Marines just ordered.

I believe it is supposed to get up to 120 mpg. Only thing is it will only do about 85 mph. Not really fast enough for the freeways out here.

Mike