With the gas prices beginning to stabilize somewhat, I have to question something that comes up fairly often around our offices. Does fuel economy even come into play when it comes to your musclecars? Sure, there's something to be said for old-school iron that doesn't have to stop at every gas station, but does it really have to be able to pull off 14-plus miles per gallon?
Yes, I understand that with the advent of electronic fuel injection and modern-day five- and six-speed transmissions, many cars are capable of producing impressive fuel mileage, making killer power to boot. However, I think we can unanimously agree that not everyone has the cash roll to drop in a late-model powerplant with the added luxury of an overdrive.
It's not to say that there aren't more people playing with EFI, but I'm willing to bet my shoes that there are more carbureted small- and big-blocks stuffed in between your fenderwells and that you aren't afraid to drive them. But tell me, what is the driving force-or better yet, motivation-for your current builds? Putting the cost aside, does fuel economy come into play, affecting your decisions on how you plan to build your powerplants? Keep in mind I'm only talking about the engines here.
My argument has always been that many of the cars we're passionate about, or just lucky enough to own, have already been relegated to weekend-cruiser status. There may be a few-I'm saying a very limited number of people-brave enough to commute in their musclecars on a daily basis. Hey, don't get me wrong, I'm all for them, but unfortunately that crowd seems to be evolving into a rare breed. While some of my friends may argue that I'm being closed-minded when it comes to the fuel crunch, I've never said my stance was entirely correct either. It just so happens that I feel most passionate enthusiasts are still willing to pay whatever it costs to get out on the weekends. Isn't that what a hobby is for? You know, a way to escape reality, even if it's only for a brief moment to the local car show.
Back in the Sept. '06 issue, I asked what type of engine you would build, with or without price constraints. The responses were overwhelming, very detailed, but none of them described a fuel-efficient 87-octane buildup.
What do you think? As always, I'll be anxiously awaiting your thoughts, so light up that desktop and hit me up at the e-mail address listed below.
E-mail me: chevyhi@primedia.comFlame me: chevyhiperformance.com