Originally published in the Orlando Sentinel
July 28, 2007
Q: I have a 2004 Buick Rainier with a V-8 engine. If I drive 600 miles at 60 mph, I will arrive at my destination in 10 hours. If I drive 600 miles at 70 mph, I will arrive in 8.5 hours. I will save gas at 60 mph, but at 70 mph, I would save 1.5 hours of wear and tear on my engine. Would I be better off to save the gas and drive 60 mph, or drive 70 mph and cut 90 minutes of engine-on time? Bob
A: If you use a top-quality PAO-based synthetic oil like Amsoil or Mobil 1, the extra 90 minutes of engine use would not result in any measurable wear, so it would come down to which you value more: The savings in gasoline or the savings in your time. That is, of course, not taking into consideration whether the faster trip would be as safe (or as legal, if you’re taking roads where the speed limit is less than 70 mph).
Larry Perry, the “Magic Mechanic,” hosts a Saturday-afternoon radio show by that name on 580 AM (WDBO) and is owner of a repair shop at 1432 Lee Road in Orlando. Steven Cole Smith is automotive editor of the Sentinel.
