JensH
Senior Member
Hi all,
I have a '95 model with 135k on the clock. Generally good condition.
I have poor fuel consumption. Over about 1,300 miles I am getting this (mpg (UK Imperial)):
Average: 18.73
Best: 20.75
Worst: 15:55 (although that was before a full maintenance service)
The MB data in the handbook is:
Urban: 20.8 mpg
Av 56 mph: 31.7
Av 75 mph: 25.9
I do about half and half urban (London, bad) and long distance w motorway, which suggests about 23.35 as an average (MB figures), assuming motorway average at 75 mph. I am 80% of the MB average. I drive with a/c off in the cold seasons, so throughout the mileage period.
I have just had (service) all main filters changed, including fuel and air, new plugs and a full engine oil change (Castrol Magnatec).
I feel comfortable in the ethical debate driving a car that will last a lifetime (if we stopped making so many of them that'd make a difference). 18.73 mpg is disappointing, though, and makes the family's Aygo with its 50 mpg look the more sensible option. Love driving the Merc, though...
Anyone got any ideas about what might improve things? Clean the fuel system? Occasional higher octane unleaded fill (heard this was bad idea)? Or is it just a feature of old age?
The engine is silky smooth and faultless. Wouldn't surprise me it the car could still hit its original 132 mph max - with a few little rattles and squeaks, maybe.
Never saw myself as a pub fuel consumption geek, but never mind! :lol:
I have a '95 model with 135k on the clock. Generally good condition.
I have poor fuel consumption. Over about 1,300 miles I am getting this (mpg (UK Imperial)):
Average: 18.73
Best: 20.75
Worst: 15:55 (although that was before a full maintenance service)
The MB data in the handbook is:
Urban: 20.8 mpg
Av 56 mph: 31.7
Av 75 mph: 25.9
I do about half and half urban (London, bad) and long distance w motorway, which suggests about 23.35 as an average (MB figures), assuming motorway average at 75 mph. I am 80% of the MB average. I drive with a/c off in the cold seasons, so throughout the mileage period.
I have just had (service) all main filters changed, including fuel and air, new plugs and a full engine oil change (Castrol Magnatec).
I feel comfortable in the ethical debate driving a car that will last a lifetime (if we stopped making so many of them that'd make a difference). 18.73 mpg is disappointing, though, and makes the family's Aygo with its 50 mpg look the more sensible option. Love driving the Merc, though...
Anyone got any ideas about what might improve things? Clean the fuel system? Occasional higher octane unleaded fill (heard this was bad idea)? Or is it just a feature of old age?
The engine is silky smooth and faultless. Wouldn't surprise me it the car could still hit its original 132 mph max - with a few little rattles and squeaks, maybe.
Never saw myself as a pub fuel consumption geek, but never mind! :lol:
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