How many miles per gallon does a 1986 Chevy S10 Blazer get?
Most 1986 S-10 Blazer configurations achieve roughly 16 to 22 miles per gallon, depending on engine, drivetrain, and condition. Real-world figures vary, but this range captures the typical spread across the model line for that era.
Engine options and their impact on fuel economy
In 1986, the Blazer could be equipped with several engine choices, each with different efficiency characteristics. Here are the common configurations and their approximate combined mpg ranges.
- 2.5L inline-four (commonly paired with 2WD): roughly 18–22 mpg combined.
- 2.8L V6 (2WD): roughly 17–20 mpg combined.
- 4.3L V6 (2WD): roughly 16–19 mpg combined.
Note: These ranges reflect typical factory estimates and observed performance in mixed driving. Real-world results can vary based on maintenance, tire size, payload, and driving style.
Drivetrain and transmission effects
Whether the Blazer is two-wheel drive or four-wheel drive, and which transmission it uses, materially influences mpg. In general, 4WD variants deliver lower fuel economy than their 2WD counterparts, and manual versus automatic transmissions can add a small difference depending on gearing and usage.
- 4WD versions are typically about 1–3 mpg lower in mixed driving than 2WD versions with the same engine.
- Automatic transmissions often yield slightly lower mpg than manuals in older trucks, though the difference varies by model year and drivetrain.
- Higher rear axle gearing (common in trucks) can improve highway economy but may reduce city efficiency.
For precise figures, identify your exact truck configuration (engine, 2WD/4WD, transmission) and consult vintage EPA data or a trusted owner-forum compilation for that build.
Real-world considerations and how to estimate your mpg
Because the 1986 S-10 Blazer was offered with multiple options and era-specific gearing, real-world mileage depends on several factors beyond engine size. Maintenance history, condition of the carburetor or fuel injection system, exhaust, tires, alignment, and load all play roles. If you own or are evaluating a specific vehicle, the best practical approach is to estimate from your own driving history or reference period-appropriate data for that exact configuration.
Summary
In short, a 1986 Chevy S10 Blazer typically falls in the mid-teens to low-20s mpg range, with 2.5L engines tending toward the higher end and 4.3L V6 engines toward the lower end. Four-wheel-drive models generally lag behind two-wheel-drive versions by a few miles per gallon. For a precise figure, identify the exact engine and drivetrain and consult historical EPA data or owner-sourced reports for that configuration.
