The EPA suggests that these two engines (let's assume both are automatic) will get nearly identical gas mileage, but I find that hard to believe, in realistic driving situations. Will the 305 really get nearly as good gas mileage as the V6? If so, I see no reason to sacrifice the power you'd lose with a V6. My driving is probably 80% highway, by the way.

Thanks.

EDIT: I'd be looking at the 90-92 models, as well.

 

They are within a couple mpg of each other. To me, sacrificing a v8 for a v6 only for mpg savings isn't worth it. I don't bother checking my 91 305 for short trip driving because I don't always baby it. But on a recent long highway road trip I got 26 mpg while averaging 70~80 mph, and that wasn't all flatlands either. Driving a little slower probably could have gotten me at least 28.

 

I could probably squeeze 26 or 27 out of a 305, then. I drive between 55-65 pretty much the entire time i'm on the road, and it's highway for the most part. Now if I could just find a decent deal on one.

That's a gorgeous car, you have, by the way.

 

One more question: If the smaller engine does not offer better gas mileage, what does it offer over a 305?

 

More space under the hood? That's about it :v

I got 21.75 mpg on a recent 175 mile trip to Calgary, travelling at average ~88mph, although I did spend roughly 30 minutes idling due to a rollover accident.

Using it as my daily driver it costs ~$55/week, driving 236 miles/week. I also pay over $5/gallon, but perhaps that will give you a rouch idea of what you can expect.

 

Kinda think of it as both cars need to use so much power to propel them at the same speed. It takes less throttle to get to that power to achieve the speed with a V8 as it does the V6.
My 91 RS gets a combined city/highway 22-25 with spirited driving. (last trip I got avereage 25 with city, highway and driving in the hills with the a/c on) It has 2:77 rear gears but I think the stock rear in it had 2:73 and an automatic.

 

Thanks a lot guys.

 

I have a 92 RS V6 and average 21 to 23 with the city and 28 on pure highway miles. (Filling up and jumping on the highway and driving.)

 

i got 22 mpg on average with mixed driving and 3.73s