How To Make Your Classic Car More Fuel Efficient
Lots of people collect classic cars because they have a certain allure. There is much joy to be felt when an old vehicle is still able to run after all these years. Classic cars are a unique type of vehicle that requires a different approach when it comes to fuel efficiency.
Do Classic Cars Use A Lot Of Fuel?
One of the main reasons that people don’t drive their classic cars as often as they would like is because they are gas guzzlers. It can be quite expensive to fill up a classic car’s tank, especially if you are driving it on a regular basis. Even if you only take your classic car out for special occasions, the high cost of fuel can still put a damper on your fun.
Improve Classic Car Fuel Economy
There are a few things that you can do to make your classic car more fuel efficient. By following these tips, you can save money on gas and enjoy your classic car more often.
Keep The Car Properly Tuned Up
One of the most important things you can do to improve your car’s fuel economy is to keep it properly tuned up. This means regularly checking and changing the oil, as well as ensuring that the other fluids are at the correct levels. It’s also important to check the air filter and replace it when necessary. A dirty air filter can reduce your car’s fuel economy by up to 10%.
Inflate The Tires Properly
Another way to improve your classic car’s fuel efficiency is to make sure the tires are inflated properly. This is something that should be checked on a regular basis. When the tires are underinflated, they create more resistance, which causes the engine to work harder and use more fuel.
Remove Excess Weight
If your classic car is carrying around a lot of excess weight, it’s going to use more fuel. Any unnecessary items should be removed from the car. This includes things like golf clubs, extra clothing, and anything else that you don’t need on a regular basis.
Avoid Idling
When you’re stopped in traffic or at a red light, try to avoid idling for long periods of time. This wastes fuel and can also damage your car’s engine. If you’re going to be stopped for more than 30 seconds, it’s best to turn off the engine until you’re ready to move again.
Drive Smoothly
Accelerating quickly and braking hard uses more fuel than driving smoothly. Anticipate when you need to slow down and brake gradually. When you’re ready to speed up again, gently press the accelerator. This type of driving uses less fuel and is also easier on your car’s engine.
Classic Car Modifications For Fuel Efficiency
If you’re willing to make some modifications to your classic car, there are a few things you can do to improve its fuel economy.
Install A Lean Burn Conversion Kit
One way to improve your car’s fuel efficiency is to install a lean burn conversion kit. This type of kit allows the engine to run on a mixture of air and fuel that is leaner than what is normally used. This means that less fuel is needed to produce the same amount of power, which will improve your car’s fuel economy.
Replace The Carburetor With Fuel Injection
Another modification you can make to improve your car’s fuel economy is to replace the carburetor with fuel injection. Fuel injection is more efficient than a carburetor because it doesn’t waste as much fuel. This means that your car will use less fuel and get better gas mileage.
Install A Lower Gear Ratio
If your car has a manual transmission, you can improve its fuel economy by installing a lower gear ratio. This will allow the engine to run at a lower RPM, which uses less fuel. You’ll lose some power with this modification, but you’ll make up for it in fuel savings. Some people may be okay with this change but some may not want to sacrifice losing power for fuel efficiency.
Classic cars are a great way to travel and see the world. However, their fuel efficiency can be a bit of a challenge. There are a few things you can do to help improve your car’s fuel economy, even if it’s a classic model.