This is something I watch and have followed for a while.
All I have seen says it's a wash between AC and open windows ~ 10% reduction
in mileage either way. Only better way seems to be to drive with the
windows closed, or use some other means of transportation.
I drive a '97 GMC Jimmy because of the cargo space (I carry lots of
equipment for demonstration).
My Jimmy averages ~23mpg (I drive ~50,000 miles/year). If I drive 65mph, I
get 23mpg, if I drive 75mph, I get 24mpg. At 55mph, I get 24mpg. I drive
75mph!
Also have a 7 passenger '96 Dodge Caravan, it gets ~22 on trips. More easy
cargo space with the "gas guzzling SUV" for me, but I'm getting better
mileage than the van.
Does that mean I should drive a van because it's not a SUV? Doubt it.
Brian P. Huber
Troy, OH
bphuber@xxxxxxxxxx
In a message dated 9/20/99 2:21:33 AM Pacific Daylight Time,
rhdesign@xxxxxxxxxxxxx writes:
<< FWIW my Saab has a fuel consumption meter, and I've never noticed a
significant change whether the a/c is on or not. Opening the windows
probably *does* have more effect! >>
Richard,
you can still do the test with your fuel meter for the open
window condition!
It is very interesting that your a/c does not change your fuel consumption
much since the only real data I have was my old car in which it definitely
made a difference. What is the resolution of the fuel meter can you measure
1% reliably?
I am going to Florida next month and will try to see if I can measure
any difference in the rental car on those very flat highways. My feeling
with
rental cars previously was it did make a difference but as Acer pointed out
it may be that in city driving it gets to be more significant and in anycase
you don't get a good feel for what is the normal variability for a rental
car.
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