What is the mpg on a 1998 Acura EL?
The 1998 Acura EL typically delivered fuel economy in the low 30s mpg overall, with automatic versions around 31 mpg combined and manual versions closer to 33 mpg combined depending on driving conditions. Real-world results vary, but you can expect roughly 27–29 mpg in city driving and 36–37 mpg on the highway for the common configurations.
This article reviews the official figures as they were reported for the model, explains how those numbers were measured, and discusses factors that influence real-world fuel economy for this compact sedan.
EPA fuel economy estimates
Below are commonly cited figures for the North American market, noting that Canada-based ELs were the primary variant in many regions and official EPA listings for this model are not universally cataloged the same way as US-market vehicles. The two drivetrain options below reflect the transmissions typically offered in 1998.
- Automatic transmission: 27 mpg city / 36 mpg highway; combined about 31 mpg.
- 5-speed manual transmission: 29 mpg city / 37 mpg highway; combined about 33 mpg.
Engineers aimed for efficient city commuting and respectable highway mileage, though actual results depend on maintenance, driving style, and road conditions.
Real-world MPG factors
Actual mileage for a 1998 Acura EL can vary widely based on several practical factors. The following list highlights elements that typically influence real-world fuel economy.
- Driving habits: Aggressive acceleration and frequent braking reduce efficiency.
- Maintenance: A clean air filter, fresh spark plugs, and a well-tuned engine help preserve MPG.
- Vehicle condition: Worn components, misaligned wheels, or clogged exhaust can hurt MPG.
- Load and aerodynamics: Extra weight and roof racks increase drag and lower efficiency.
Users and reviewers commonly report real-world MPG in the low 30s for mixed driving, with higher numbers on long highway trips and lower numbers in heavy city traffic.
Market variations and year specifics
The EL’s availability and tuning varied by market. In Canada, the model used a 1.6-liter engine paired with either a 4-speed automatic or a 5-speed manual. The U.S. market did not see a broad official EL rollout, so North American figures often come from Canadian-market data, owner reports, and period press materials. Exact mpg can differ by VIN, engine code, transmission, and year-specific refinements.
As with any older car, individual fuel economy will depend on how well the car has aged, how it’s been maintained, and how it’s driven.
Summary
The 1998 Acura EL, powered by a 1.6-liter engine, generally achieves fuel economy in the low 30s mpg combined—about 31 mpg with an automatic and around 33 mpg with a 5-speed manual—though real-world numbers depend on driving conditions and maintenance. For buyers of this era, highway cruising often yields the best mileage, while urban commutes tend to pull the figure down.
