Own both: a 96 & a 99 OBW...

been enjoyin the air conditioning lately... how much effect on the gas mileage should I expect? $2.50 per gallon, a trip coming up... gotta plan this out.

Later,

Peter

Cold air on 100+ days is a necessity, in any car. With my daughter's 96 OBW 5mt, constant A/C use causes the mileage to drop by 5-10%, from 24+mpg around town to 22-23mpg. Highway A/C use brings mileage from 28+mpg down to 25+mpg. When I drive it, I try to help a little by turning the compressor off briefly when starting from a stop and when pulling a hill. Although I have a nagging hunch that my "help" is minimal, it makes me feel better and gives me more engine power in those situations. .

 

Good luck on your trip.