<VV> Better mileage with convertible top down!!

[Sethracer at aol.com]

_vairdude at gmail.com_ (mailto:vairdude at gmail.com)  writes:

Ray and  others, I am still in the testing phase but the last 3 weekends I
have gone  on 200 mile trips with the convert top down and have added 2 mpg
to my  usual average.  Maybe less drag coefficient? Why? I don't know  for
sure but I am willing to test more! Anyone else noticed this? Maybe  ,then
converts are better than coupes!  HAHA John Gull in the Blue  ridge mts of 
NC
 
Why not add another variable? Generally speaking, the engine in any Corvair 
 convertible (early or late) runs a bit hotter with the top down, than with 
 the top up. That is because the disrupted air flow over the passenger  
compartment does not present a consistent air pressure to the air intake  grill 
in the area of the engine lid. (as opposed to a coupe, sedan or closed-top  
convertible.) Perhaps your engine runs more efficiently (at least  
mileage-wise) at the slightly higher temp.
Or maybe you are driving more carefully while doing these tests. There are  
lots of variables that could affect the mileage.  
 
- Seth Emerson