Long time lurker from AR, Mini content inside.

[Spdmini]

Spdmini, here, I've been browsing for years and decided to come into the eco-fold. Currently, I have a 2012 Jetta Sportwagen TDI DSG, 1966 Austin Mini, and 1980 Mini Clubman Estate.

The JSW is the daily and is really racking up the miles, 11,500 since June of this year.
The '66 Mini, I've had since high school, was born with a 848cc but is now powered by 1380cc's of A-series fury. It returns ~35 mpg and is hoot to drive.


The Clubby Estate is the project vehicle purchased without a drivetrain. I'm in the process of deciding what route to take. Right now the options are an auto A-series or auto TDI (probably BEW for the better 5 speed 09A). The Autos are a must due to muscular dystrophy, so on that.

[Daox]

Welcome to the site. The JSW is a nice vehicle. I've driven one a few times and liked it quite a bit. 38 mpg does seem fairly low for the vehicle though. What kind of commute do you have?

[Spdmini]

Meh, 38mpg is just about right, I expect it to improve as the mileage increases. The commute is about 160 miles/day hwy.

[Daox]

160 miles per day!?! Is that to and from work, or do you travel around for work?

The couple I know routinely average mid 40s with theirs, and the Mrs likes the gas pedal. Also, considering the EPA highway rating is 42, I'd say 38 is low. Not trying to bash it, just saying there is definite room for improvement. What kind of speeds are you traveling at on the highway? My guess is slowing down will show you a sizable improvement.

[Spdmini]

Yes, 160 miles round trip. I'm not debating there is room for improvement, if you'd like to discuss this with my wife.... She's the one doing the commuting, it's for a Nuclear Medicine program and she has about 10 months remaining. When I drive it, I see 42-43mpg. I'm not worried as the mpg keeps trending upward.

[Varn]

Welcome from the heartland. Where is fsm?

[Spdmini]

Just a touch south west of you in Arkansas. Riiiiiight on the border of AR/OK.