Question about rpm’s and fuel consumption.

[thomassteans]

Hello,
I currently drive a Ford Explorer, which is our family car. At around 85 mph, the RPMs are just over 2,000, and I average about 22.5 mpg with its 2.3 turbocharged L4 engine. My daily commute is about 110 miles round trip, entirely on the highway, where I typically cruise between 80 and 90 mph.

What RPMs might I expect with a sports car and how that would affect fuel consumption? I know a sports car isn't going to achieve the same fuel efficiency as a Prius, so I’m not expecting that level of economy. I’m just curious about the typical RPMs and fuel consumption I might see, as I’m considering buying one of these beauties.

[jimmygroth]

Originally Posted by thomassteans

Hello,
I currently drive a Ford Explorer, which is our family car. At around 85 mph, the RPMs are just over 2,000, and I average about 22.5 mpg with its 2.3 turbocharged L4 engine. My daily commute is about 110 miles round trip, entirely on the highway, where I typically cruise between 80 and 90 mph.

What RPMs might I expect with a sports car and how that would affect fuel consumption? I know a sports car isn't going to achieve the same fuel efficiency as a Prius, so I’m not expecting that level of economy. I’m just curious about the typical RPMs and fuel consumption I might see, as I’m considering buying one of these beauties.

I think at 80mph mine sits around 3700rpm or so. Average mpg will vary a lot based on how you drive, how you accelerate, etc. If you aren't redlining to get up to speed, you could probably expect 28-30mpg if your driving is all highway. For what it's worth, you'll get better fuel economy if you drive slower. Most cars get best economy someone around 55-70mph

[OliverGT]

I have a 2003 BMW M3 and that will average around 28-29 MPG (UK) if you drive at 80-90mph. Dropping the speed to 70ish and it will go over 30mpg easily on a run.

RPM's are probably around 3K rpm maybe a bit higher?

Just remember, at those speeds most of the energy used is to push you through the air, so anything that is more aerodynamic than your Explorer is likely to be better on fuel economy.