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For gas mileage, it's kind of amazing that such heavy tanks can get in the high 20s and even up to the low 30s (reported on this site by people who have M47 5-speed manuals; I've never been north of 27 or so with my auto tranny 240s). This impressive feat of Swedish engineering also means that they are really sensitive to things being just a little out of whack. 240s really respond to taking care of all the basics:
• Make sure it is completely tuned up and maintained (check especially AMM, Oxy sensor, plugs/wires, air filter, throttle body cleaned, no intake or vacuum leaks).
• Regular check your tire inflation. Go a little higher than the Volvo recommendations printed on the label in the door jamb but don't exceed the maximums stamped on the tires - proper tire inflation easily could make 3-4 mpg difference alone.
• Don't carry unnecessary loads.
• Don't use the A/C (if it works at all - if you have an earlier model consider doing the A/C condenser bypass from IPD).
• Don't drive with the windows open. Of course this advice obviously conflicts with the last item in the summer. If it's gotta be one or the other, open windows are much less of a drag on mpg than the A/C.
• Go light on the pedal and don't speed. The difference between 60MPH and 80MPH will cost you 3-5 mpg. Don't even kid yourself about trying to push the acceleration in these machines. Follow the sage advice of my father for maximum mpg and vehice longevity: drive like you have an egg between your foot and the pedals that you're trying not to break.
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