4 ms·
That number comes from a time of 3-speed transmissions and non-aerodynamic bodies. I heard better numbers back when 5-speed was becoming common, but now we're s
by tropo 10y ago
That number comes from a time of 3-speed transmissions and non-aerodynamic bodies. I heard better numbers back when 5-speed was becoming common, but now we're seeing 8-speed and 9-speed and CVT. It's probably around 65mph now.
- Nition 10y agoI've heard 70km/h elsewhere, but the only personal data I have is I used to drive a 2002 5-speed manual VW Golf Mk IV, the 2L petrol version, and that had a fuel economy display on it plus a nice chart of economy per gear in the owner's manual. The book similarly said best would be at around 70km/h (~45mph) in 5th gear, and I confirmed that was true in my own tests. The 6-speed GTI was charted in the owner's manual as well and its best economy was shown as a little faster, in its extra 6th gear.
- YSFEJ4SWJUVU6 10y agoAerodynamic resistance (“drag”) doesn't care about your transmission. The sweet spot is even lower with electric cars (especially with all the peripheral devices turned off). However, a modern mid-sized car with an efficient engine gets 40 MPG or more at 75 MPH, while a gas guzzler won't get such mileage at any speed.
- dagw 10y agoOwn a 2014 6-speed petrol VW and according to the manual the optimal speed for max mileage is around 70-75 km/h