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6/16/2008 5:48:41 PM

I think if people buy both and see gains with one versus the other they should roll with it.

Try it out.

Nobody here is an expert (goes without saying).

6/16/2008 6:28:07 PM

Quote :

"ha. I saw that show and was like "oooh windows v AC". AC actually does work better for me. I've averaged a 2mpg increase on my trips between raleigh and wilmington when I use my ac on high instead of rolling down my windows. went from about 13.4 to 15.6 Also get better mileage with my tailgate up but it isn't as noticeable."

The biggest problem with their experiment was that in the window car they put all four windows down, and in the AC car they had the AC on full blast. Most people don't put all four windows down. And most people don't use full blast AC - on the show they were even talking about how cold it was inside the car. Also they only went 45mph in the five gallon challenge. But the whole basis of the myth is that window drag is worse at highway speeds.

6/17/2008 8:54:32 AM

^if I had a 4 door car I'd be more inclined to lower all four windows if I'm on the highway or traveling fast. The wind buffeting effect is GREATLY reduced if you open the rear windows.

6/17/2008 11:38:14 AM

Quote :

"not that I'm doubting your claim of relatively same situations, how did the weather vary? Humidity hurts mileage (in addition to extreme heat or cold)"

you know, that is not something that i took into account...it was around september/october...still, it seems that the difference was large enough and consistent enough not to be a fluke or attributed to something like the weather

*shrug*

so, overall, does putting premium in an regular actually hurt it?

6/17/2008 3:25:59 PM

9/10 times I say no.

Rain also hurts your mileage.

6/17/2008 3:49:58 PM