101 MPG segment for ZX2 at 32 degrees.

[CO ZX2]

Old Reliable ZX2 did it again today. 11/17/2006

I believe noteworthy by virtue of being done at highway speeds.

101 MPG segment, 33 miles, 50 MPH avg. speed, 74 MPH max. speed.

ScanGauge Readings Below.



Weather not the most desirable today.

The general consensus seems to be that coId weather puts a virtual end to serious testing and FE. I decided to give it a try anyway. I blocked both front and rear of the radiator today. Had bought an engine block heater but didn't get it installed yet. Also added extra blocking at bottom of engine compartment. New 195 thermostat and new battery. This seemed to work well for getting up to temperature in 32 degree weather. I will make this run again on a nicer day.

Car is complete as sold new. Zetec DOHC Engine, 5 Speed transmission, Air conditioning, power steering, power brakes. Stock wheels and tires 185/65R/14.

Nothing missing on car, seats, spare tire, jack, small box of tools I carry, my wife, our cat & her equipment, on the road lunch, all there today.

We have had this car for about 4 years and the best mileage measured during that span was 43 MPG. The cheapo aero mods I have done cost practically nothing but produced a marked improvement in FE. I don't believe I have spent over $200 on the car otherwise including battery, block heater, thermostat, a 4X8 sheet of plastic, spun wheel discs, a couple switches and wire for shut-offs on the ignition and fuel injectors.

One notable exception to my cheapskate ways was to spring for a ScanGauge II. Paid $165 for it. A very important piece of equipment to me. I thought I was a pretty decent economy driver. WRONG!!!

EPA rating for this car 25 city 33 highway.

I got seriously involved in fuel economy in September, 2006. It has been since then that this car has transpired into what it is today. Since September 27, 2006 I have logged over 5000 miles FE testing. Average 53.25 MPG for those miles.

I hope this serves to inspire others who have taken up the fuel economy game.

Thanks for looking in.