Hi I am new to the forum looking to buy an older AWD for a 70 plus mile a day daily driver. I am wondering which combo 1.8, 2.0, 2.2, 2.5, manual or auto will produce the best mileage and still have fun factor when I want it. Fun factor is important I have been racing Turo Buick for almost 20 years (mid 9 second) so I don't want to go slow for 1 MPG.
One of the cars I am looking at specifically is a 96 Brighton coupe 1.8 AWD 5 spd. My thinking was that the lighter car, smaller engine MIGHT get better mileage.
After doing some searching it seems to me that the auto's actually get better mileage than manual which makes no sense to me at all. I have no problem with an auto wouldn’t make much difference on my drive to work on country roads with 2 stop signs.
I also understand that efficiency (having enough power) is just as critical to mileage as anything else. For example my step daughters v6 grand am gets better mileage than my sister inlaws grand am with the 4 cyl.
I am not meaning to hijack this thread I apologize if I have, hopefully maybe add some thoughts.
What are you guys seeing is there a particular combo that I would be better off with?
Thanks in advance Dave