Hey Scotty, big fan from California.
I'm the second owner of an automatic 2001 Saab 9-5 Aero @ 184k, mostly highway miles. I drive it to work and back and sometimes get groceries. I only drive in sport mode. I get about 290-295 miles with a full tank and about 305-315 miles out of a full tank with the A/C on, which is on most of the time in the spring/summer months. I've never owned a car that can do that, I don't even notice a lack of performance. Can you explain to me why I'm getting more gas mileage when I use the A/C?
Thanks.
you're talking about a 3% difference, which I think is easily within the margin of error. Modern A/C systems are very efficient.
Also, most people don't realise that the compressor still runs even when you don't set your climate control specifically to "A/C" mode, and even when you use heat. If it didn't then your windshield could fog up and you crash.
By your numbers, you are getting 16mpg, which isn't great. The 9-5 published rating is 28mpg on the highway.
more air resistance with the windows open
