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How many miles per gallon does a 1979 Ford Fairmont get?

Across the 1979 Fairmont range, fuel economy varies by engine, transmission, and condition, but typical numbers hover in the low- to mid-20s mpg in combined driving, with highway figures often higher for the more efficient setups. In short, the 2.3-liter four-cylinder tends to offer the best highway efficiency, while larger engines pull overall mpg downward.


Context: what affects the mpg numbers


Fuel economy for a 1979 Ford Fairmont is shaped by several factors: the engine choice, the type of transmission, how well the carburetion or fuel injection is tuned, the car’s weight and aerodynamics, and the wear on aging components. Because the model year sits in the late-1970s era, EPA estimates from that time reflect older standards and emission controls, and real-world results could vary significantly from one example to another.


Engine options and fuel economy


The following figures are approximate ranges reported by owners and reflected in vintage-era guides. Real-world mileage will vary based on maintenance, driving style, and drivetrain condition.


2.3-liter inline-4 (most common)


Typical MPG: city driving about 22–26 mpg; highway cruising about 28–32 mpg; combined roughly in the mid-20s to upper-20s mpg depending on gearing and transmission.


2.8-liter V6


Typical MPG: city driving around 18–22 mpg; highway about 25–28 mpg; combined often in the low 20s mpg range.


3.3-liter inline-6


Typical MPG: city around 20–24 mpg; highway around 27–30 mpg; combined in the low-to-mid 20s mpg range.


V8 options (rare for Fairmont)


Typical MPG: city roughly 15–18 mpg; highway about 20–25 mpg; combined frequently in the high teens to low 20s mpg range.


Bottom line


For a 1979 Ford Fairmont, expect better fuel economy from the four-cylinder version and lower figures from any larger engine, with highway mileage generally higher than city mileage. Because these cars are several decades old and may have varying maintenance histories, actual mpg will depend heavily on how well the vehicle is cared for today.


Summary


In summary, the 1979 Ford Fairmont did not have a single, uniform mpg figure. Most 2.3-liter four-cylinders yield roughly the low-to-mid 20s mpg in mixed driving and the upper 20s to low 30s mpg on the highway, while larger engines typically deliver lower overall efficiency. Real-world results depend on engine condition, transmission, weight, and how well the era’s fuel system is tuned.

Was the Ford Fairmont a good car?


Reception. Contemporary reviews were generally favorable, with many commenting on the "European" feel of the car and comparing it to the Volvo 200 series. The 1978 Fairmont has been called the "most efficient Ford family (sedan) ever built from a space-per-weight perspective."



What is the fuel economy of a Ford Fairmont?


It has a gas only or petrol engine with a fuel economy range from 10.2L/100km to 15.1L/100km, depending on the model badge.



What is a running 1979 Ford 250 worth?


Typically, you can expect to pay around $27,779 for a 1979 Ford F-250 3/4 Ton in good condition with average spec. The highest selling price of a 1979 Ford F-250 3/4 Ton at auction over the last three years was $81,400.



How many miles per gallon does a 1980 Ford Fairmont get?


The 1980 Ford Fairmont had an EPA estimated 23 MPG in 49 states, and 21 MPG in California, with highway estimates of 38 MPG and 31 MPG respectively. These figures varied based on the specific engine and drivetrain, with some models achieving higher mileage, particularly in highway driving.
 
You can watch this video to see a 1980 Ford Fairmont and hear about its gas mileage: 59sRegular Car ReviewsYouTube · Oct 14, 2019

  • EPA Estimated MPG (49 States): 23 MPG (City), 38 MPG (Highway).
  • EPA Estimated MPG (California): 21 MPG (City), 31 MPG (Highway).
  • Estimated Range (49 States): 368 miles (City), 608 miles (Highway).
  • Estimated Range (California): 336 miles (City), 496 miles (Highway). 


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.