I sold my 98 z about two weeks ago, b/c I thought I couldn't get a job, therefore I needed all the money I could get for school. Before I know it, I land another job, making 15 bucks an hour. I've always wanted an older camaro, so i think now is my chance....but being a college student the first thing I think of is maintenance & gas.

So my question today is not do you recommend me getting another camaro, but what camaro's within the 2nd gen tend to get better gas mileage than other years? I don't except it to be a prius, I know the mpg will be low, I just want to know.

Second question, for older camaros, how would you increase your gas mileage? I have a light foot now, after getting 2 tickets in two months, but I'm sure there's other ways. It seems that rear end gears and carb have the most impact.

Lemme know what you think

 

My personal preference is early 2nd gen Camaros 70-73. I don't think one particular year gets better mileage over others, but I have found that small V8's get better mileage than V6 or big V8's.
If you stick with a decent low performance 350, and a small 4 barrel, you'll probably get as good a mileage as anything. Higher geared rearends in the 2.74 or 3.08 range will give better highway mileage, although you'll lose some performance off the line.
A decent exhaust system, with headers will also help, but keep with small diamter tubes, and not over around 2.25" exhausts for a low performance 350. Getting everything flowing freely will increase mileage, but too big and you'll defeat the purpose.
Watch the right foot, and with a proper tuneup you should be able to easily get 16 mpg witha good running engine around town.

 

I Have a 77 305 Everything Stock, i Get About 22 MPG H/W And Thats With Driving It Slow And Easy :P. Still Got Power When I Need It Though.

 

You are so in luck! I just listed this one we have had for the past couple years. You won't be disappointed! Check it out.
https://camaroforums.com/forum/useless-posts-36/73-camaro-silver-black-stripes-sale-42908/

 

The early 70's cars were not really built with economy in mind. They can be made to get decent gas mileage with the right parts but cost could become a factor. Later 70's cars were much more likely to have rear gears and carburation that will get better mileage. Of course this is all based on what the factory put in the car, many have been modified by now. If you are on a budget you will probably get the best deal on the later cars too.

 

If you are talking about stock, stay away from 75s & 76s. Thats when the regulations really hit and those engines are generally underpowered and problematic. If you are worried about gas mileage, you may need to consider the price of gas, i.e regular vs. premium which would generally mean sticking with a 2BBL carb.

 

or you could just buy a cheap beater that is good on gas and save the camaro for nice days or weekends