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Old 07-29-2008, 07:04 PM   #1 (permalink)
IBrakeForNobody
EcoModding Lurker
 
Join Date: May 2008
Location: Pass the Rolls Please, CA (Central Coast)
Posts: 10

F150 - '99 Ford F-150 XLT
90 day: 16.22 mpg (US)

Aiko - '08 Mazda 3
90 day: 29.18 mpg (US)
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Which Vehicle for Short Distance Drives?

I have a choice between two vehicles...an 8 cylinder 5.4L black F-150 with an EPA estimate of 13/17 (when I got it in '99) and 12/15 (now), or my brand new 2008.5 white Mazda3 with a 2.3L 4 cylinder with a 5 speed automatic, EPA estimate of 22/29. I sometimes have to do short trips (less than five miles) in a vehicle (normally I bike), so I was wondering which vehicle I should take.

The F-150 is parked outside in the sun, and right now, it's averaging 100 degree daytime highs. The Mazda3 is parked in the garage where it's about 80 degrees or less. The hood of the F-150 is about 160 degrees, and the engine compartment is about 120 degrees. So my question is, would it be more efficient to take my F-150 for less-than-three-mile drives rather than the Mazda because the engine is essentially half-way preheated?

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