Highest MPG V8?

[bobc455]

Originally Posted by 96hb

My dad owns an '03 Corvette, so I know for a fact that they can get 30+ mpg if you drive it easy. The RPMs are so low while cruising. I think at 55mph it only turns something like 1500, but tons of power on demand, if/when you need it.

Having the RPM so low just astounds me. You still need some power to move the car, but I guess if you have so little aerodynamic resistance the engine doesn't have to produce much torque, so it's okay to run it "down in the mud". I'd be curious to know what kind of timing numbers they use under load at 1500 RPM, since the piston speed is so slow.

I guess a lockup converter is also helpful with the automatics (crown vic & northstar), of course the 5-speed manual (i.e. mustang) being the odds-on favorite.

-Bob C.