How many miles per gallon does a 1982 Ford Econoline get?
A 1982 Ford Econoline's mpg varies by engine and configuration, but typical real‑world mileage sits in the mid‑teens. Expect roughly 12–18 miles per gallon depending on engine and payload.
How mpg varied by configuration
The 1982 Econoline offered several engine choices and drive configurations. The ranges below reflect common two‑wheel‑drive setups and standard transmissions of the era, based on historical EPA data and owner reports. Actual mileage depends on weight, gearing, maintenance, and how the van is used.
Inline-6: 4.9 L (300 CID)
Among the gasoline options, the inline‑six typically delivered the best efficiency for the line, though the van’s size limits highway economy.
- 4.9 L I6 (300 CID) with 3‑speed automatic: roughly 14–16 mpg in mixed driving; 18–20 mpg on the highway.
Concluding note: The six‑cylinder option generally offers the most favorable balance of power and fuel use for everyday driving, but overall mpg remains modest by modern standards.
V8 options: 5.0 L and 5.8 L
V8 configurations provide more capability for hauling or heavier loads, but they cost fuel economy.
- 5.0 L (302 CID) V8 with automatic: around 12–15 mpg mixed; 16–18 mpg highway.
- 5.8 L (351W) V8 with automatic: around 12–14 mpg mixed; 15–17 mpg highway.
Concluding note: Engine size and payload have a clear impact on mpg; larger V8s typically run at lower miles per gallon than the inline‑six in typical use.
Notes on heavier variants and payload
Heavier GVWR configurations and vans carrying full loads or towing will generally record lower fuel economy, with some real‑world figures dipping below 12 mpg under strenuous conditions or in heavy urban driving.
Overall takeaway: The 1982 Econoline’s fuel economy is highly dependent on engine choice, weight, and driving habits. With light loads and highway cruising, the inline‑six can approach the higher end of the range, while V8‑powered models tend toward the lower end.
Summary
In short, there isn’t a single mpg figure for the 1982 Ford Econoline. Typical ranges are roughly 12–15 mpg for V8 models and 14–18 mpg for the inline‑six, with actual numbers varying by payload, gearing, and driving conditions. For owners and restorers today, real‑world fuel economy will depend on the exact engine and how the van is used.
