Hello from Oregon

[Dual Trace]

Hello Everybody,

Just joined.

I knew about this website and forum, but decided to give gas saving a try only few days ago after reading about it on msn. I own an old Mazda 626 (1995 ? 130,000 miles ? 4 cylinder ? automatic) and make 22-25 mpg for a mixed city and hwy drive.
Despite my car abilities I normally am what I think is called a spirited driver, I like mountain twisted roads, I am bored on hwys, rarely exceed speed limit by more than the ?norm? and never had an accident since 1977 when I got my driving permit.

Few days ago I started to put in practice few easy gas saving techniques that make perfect sense, but never thought they might matter a lot. So I can?t wait to see the result when I will fill the tank next week. Basically what I do is I avoid hard accelerations, drive at speed limit or lower and coast as much as I can. This last one bought me a honk from an impatient follower as I was approaching a red light. Also while driving at the speed limit on city roads, even though I am on the right lane, some drivers are really pushing my rear end.

Thanks,
Dual Trace

[theholycow]

Welcome. You're right in the EPA estimated range for your car, and I bet you'll be able to beat it. Be sure to put your car in the "garage" and start a gaslog.

Hang around, read up on the different (sometimes VERY different) strategies that others here are using, and you'll be able to refine your strategies to increase your mileage and maybe reduce how much you make following drivers angry.

[R.I.D.E.]

Keep approaching the red light, I wouldn't mind if I never had to stop for one .

regards
gary