Quote:
Originally Posted by GreenHornet
The first car I would like to analyze and discuss is the 1959 Fiat 600 that competed in the Shell Eco Marathons and achieved verified fuel economies of 173 mpg in 1967, 244 in 1968 and 304 in 1973.
This car may or may not have been previously covered in this forum if not I would like to perform an in depth analysis of the car and just how it achieved its 304mpg back in 1973.
First lets look into the 1959 model year Fiat 600 car specs.
Basic Specs:
Class = City car
Body style = 2-door sedan
Layout = RR layout
Engine = 633 cc OHV I4
767 cc OHV I4
843 cc 100 R7.038 OHV I4 (600S)
Length = 3,215 mm (126.6 in)
Width = 1,380 mm (54 in)
Height = 1,405 mm (55.3 in)
Curb weight = 585 kg (1,290 lb)
CD = 0.5
Top Speed = 61mph
MPG = 41.2
Now we know the basic specs of the Fiat 600 next we need to determine what engine was used in the Shell Eco Marathon version as well as any modifications that were done to enhance the baseline 41.2 mpg of the original.
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Hey group. The Fiat has a 633 cc engine. Stock block and head. The intake system was converted. The exhaust was stock also. Carburetion was changed to improve the fuel dispursement. The air was passed over a 50s Ford car heater core to heat up the intake air as well as cool the engine coolant running through the engine. The original water pump, fan, radiator, and alternator were removed from the car. The engine was run like a hypermiler would run his engine in a serious mpg race. In otherwords, the engine did not run 100% of the driving experience. In looking back at the photos of the car as it was raced, the engine compartment was covered with insulation. When the engine was stopped and the car coasted, the insulation would help keep the engine warm for a restart. This, being one main reason the results were so good, would not be practical for street use today. All and all, the original Shell Mileage Marathons were raced by vehicles of original size and weight. More real than the Eco Marathons of today. Respectfully to the ECo races, the young people of today actually racing those cars could and can be the leaders of mileage gains tomorrow. I have had a great time visiting the Eco Marathons in Houston, Texas the past three years. Lots to see and learn from.