I have a '02SL with a 5' x 9' steel trailer (from Lowes). I've towed motorcycles on it state to state. I would highly recommend, if the trailer has a mesh-type 'ramp' that folds vertical when driving, remove it after loading up the trailer. If left in the upright position when driving, the mesh will act like a solid object, and really dog the car down at highway speeds. Mine is removeable, so I just lay it in the trailer when driving. Huge difference.
My car has 161,000 miles now, and 100hp SOHC engine with 5-speed. I never checked MPG with the trailer. Without the scangauge, tires at 40psi, and no air windows up, I have duplicated 49mpg on the highway a number of times (300 mile roundtrip, 60mph-no cruisecontrol on vehicle). I am going to try it with the scangauge next.
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