For those who like Diesels, Just returned from the maiden voyage (of over 100 miles) with the 1.9L TD. Went up to No. Cal to visit my kids and this is what I've found... With the 4.57 R& P, going over the Grapevine (north), the slowest speed attained; 52mph in fourth (only the first few miles straight up, then 70mph).On the way south, the same ( going straight up to 4000 ft) 52mph. On the way north I tried 65mph the whole way; mileage 23.5. South, 70mph, 21.5mpg. This is a touch less than the 26-27mpg I used to get with the old 1.6L but, what the heck, I never had to think about passing or changing lanes... At the steepest part of the "Grapevine". the oil temp got to 250 deg F, otherwise, it stayed at a comfortable 210 deg...Interesting, the oil temp stayed well below that at 60 mph (about 190 deg). Also, the boost at 4000ft with full throtle was almost 14lbs, as opposed to 11-12lbs on the flat (at full throtle). I guess the alttitude compensator works. The nominal flat out high end is 78 mph ( at 4000 rpm), this can be achieved at any time I choose, as opposed to 60mph down hill with a tail wind...An altogether different experience... Who knows, I may start driving it up here in the States... Bob Bellanca |
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