What is the best cheap car for Hypermiling?

[roadracer380]

I would like to get into a Hypermiling project car. What is the best car to start with? I want to keep it cheap so a new hybrid will not work.

I know the most about neons because I race them and I have seen one on neons.org getting 53mpg but, from what I have read the 92-95 Civic VX or a Metro seem to be better choices?

I need a car that is cheap, with readily available parts from a salvage yard and has a reliable reputation. I have full mechanical skills so engine and trans swaps are not a problem. What vehicle? What engine? What trans?

Thanks,

Jeff

[reformed]

It all depends on what your definition of "cheap" is. The CRX HF, Civic VX and Metro XFI, are the best non-hybrid gas FE cars that I know of. You could also get a regular 5th generation civic and do a VX swap.. although with aero mods and driving technique, you can achieve better than VX mileage without the help of the lean burn VX engine.

[SVOboy]

CRX with a d15z1 swap!

[Johnny Mullet]

Metro with a 1.0L mated with a 5 speed manual would be your best choice.

hypermiling projects escite me because it gives you a lot of options to do with your car. This website is really helpful to me. Thanks a lot.

Let us know when you are done with your first car.