Finding the best fuel-efficient cars feels imperative when fuel economy is a concern. Are you looking for a car that is not only fuel efficient but still enjoyable and has the charm of a classic? Check out this list of five fuel-efficient classics that won’t break the bank.
Citroën 2CV (40MPG+)
Created by André Lefèbvre and Flaminio Bertoni, the original 2CV was first produced in 1948. It’s a lightweight, inexpensive, air-cooled front-engine, rear-wheel-drive car with an enclosed body. The low weight and excellent aerodynamics of the vehicle make it very fuel efficient. The original model could achieve 40 miles per gallon (mpg). That’s not bad for a vehicle that weighs 1,300 pounds!
The 2CV has been around for 70 years, but many still consider them to be among the most reliable cars ever made.
Fiat Nuova 500 (40MPG+)
The Fiat Nuova 500 is a small city car produced from 1957 to 1975. It has a 1.2-litre engine, which gives it a top speed of 90mph and a fuel economy of 40mpg. They introduced it at the Turin Motor Show in Italy on January 9th 1955. It was an upgrade of its predecessor, the Topolino (“Little Mouse”).
The Nuova 500 featured front-wheel drive (FWD), independent suspension and leaf springs at the rear, much like today’s modern cars. Yet, it did not use rack-and-pinion steering like most modern vehicles do today since this technology wasn’t invented when produced!
Peugeot 205 GTI 1.6 (36mpg)
The Peugeot 205 GTI 1.6 was the first car to exceed the 100mph mark, achieving a top speed of 125mph. Not only was it known for its quick speeds, but it was also known to be fuel efficient doing 36mpg.
This hatchback was available as either a 1.1-litre model (which could do speeds of 62mph from rest in 12 seconds) or a more powerful 1.6-litre version. It had been tuned by Peugeot Sport for better performance, including a modified suspension set-up and bigger brakes at the front axle only!
Because of this modification with higher compression ratio pistons, camshafts and bigger valves. The 1.6 model could get to 60mph in less than 9 seconds and reach 125mph.
Volkswagen Golf GTD (50MPG+)
The Volkswagen Golf GTD is a diesel-powered version of the VW Golf. GTD stands for “Gran Turismo Diesel,” which has more power than its regular counterpart.
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The 2.0L turbocharged engine had an output of 180 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque due to its direct fuel injection system. This allowed it to have a better fuel economy than other diesel vehicles. The Golf GTD is also adaptable to all weather with its all-wheel drive as standard.
MG Metro (42mpg)
If you’re looking for a car that’s fun, economical and easy to maintain, the MG Metro is an excellent choice. The car was produced in the Longbridge plant from 1990 to 2005 by MG Rover (a British automaker).
The MG Metro was a compact car designed to be economical and easy to drive. Not only was this fun to drive, but it made a perfect family car. Available in both the three and five-door, it could comfortably sit four passengers. The car also boasted a fuel economy of 42mpg, which is one of the most fuel-efficient classics.
Mini 1275cc (40MPG+)
The Mini is not only a compact car but a British icon. The Mini has been in production since 1959 and still continues to be produced today.
The later variants of the mini such as the Austin Mini 1275 GT offer the best fuel efficiency. This is due to them being fitted with the four-cylinder 1275cc engine which did 40mpg. But the Austin Mini 1275 is a rare find with 115 cars on the road in the UK. (https://www.howmanyleft.co.uk/vehicle/austin_mini_1275_gt).
The mini was originally designed as an inexpensive alternative to larger vehicles like the Ford Cortina. Over the years it has become so popular that it outsold all other cars in its class in 2008 (including those made by BMW).
DAF 33 (40MPG+)
The DAF 33 is a classic car that gets great fuel economy and a reputation for being reliable. They manufactured the DAF 33 between 1959 and 1961, with over 5,000 units produced. It produced 75 horsepower, which was able to do speeds up of 90 mph (145 km/h).
Due to its lightweight body, variable transmission and small two-cylinder engine meant the DAF could return 40mpg.
If you’re looking for the best fuel-efficient classic cars, we hope our list has given you some inspiration. It’s not just about getting the best mileage out of your vehicle; it’s also about making sure that your car is safe and fun as well. And remember: there are plenty more options available than those listed here!
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