What is the mpg on a 1984 Ford f350?
There isn’t a single mpg figure for every 1984 F-350; fuel economy depends on engine, drivetrain, and usage. In practice, gasoline-powered models typically delivered about 10–15 miles per gallon in mixed driving, while the diesel 6.9L IDI variant often achieved roughly 15–20 mpg combined, with highway runs in the 18–22 mpg range under steady cruising.
MPG ranges by engine type
Engine choice in 1984 had the biggest influence on fuel economy. The following ranges reflect typical real-world performance reported by owners and historical data for this model year.
- Gasoline engines (5.0 L/302 and 5.8 L/351W): approximately 10–15 mpg in mixed driving; highway fuel economy commonly in the 14–18 mpg range.
- Diesel engine (6.9 L IDI): approximately 15–20 mpg combined; highway figures around 18–22 mpg under steady highway cruising.
Note: The numbers above are approximate and depend on transmission type, axle gearing, payload, and overall truck condition.
Other factors that affect mpg
Beyond engine choice, several factors determine actual mileage on a vintage F-350:
- Drivetrain: 2WD tends to be more efficient than 4x4 in everyday driving, due to lower drivetrain drag.
- Towing and payload: Heavier loads dramatically increase fuel consumption.
- Maintenance: Proper tune-ups, clean air intake, fuel system upkeep, and correct tire pressure can improve mileage modestly.
- Tire size and gearing: Larger tires and higher (numerical) axles can reduce highway mpg.
- Driving style: Aggressive acceleration and excessive idling reduce mpg; steady cruising improves it.
In practice, a 1984 F-350’s mpg will vary widely, and owners should expect a broad range depending on configuration and habits.
Summary
Summary: The 1984 Ford F-350 did not have a single fuel economy figure. Gasoline models typically delivered around 10–15 mpg combined, while the 6.9L IDI diesel variants commonly achieved 15–20 mpg combined, with highway figures potentially reaching the low 20s under ideal conditions. Real-world mileage hinges on engine choice, drivetrain, payload, maintenance, and driving habits.
