[crz]

VW built a diesel car that got over 50 MPG way back in the early 80s. But the thing was about as gutless as anything.

Then they turbo’d it. And the thing got better and better.

BTW..beware of the new diesels. They now have what they call a ash pan. I understand on the VW that the ash pan cannot simply be emptied. It has to be taken off and a new one installed, and it COST $1000.00. I do not know about the others...Cummins in the Dodges, Navistar in the Ferds and Isuzu in the GMs. I suspect they will have to do the same.

[PugetSoundSoldier]

Yes, they all have flash cylinders to reduce the large soot particles to ash. But it’s changed out after 100,000 to 150,000 miles. Meaning it’s costing you around $0.01 per mile for a change.

Considering you can double you mileage with a diesel, that extra expense is pretty minimal.

[cinives]

I had a diesel Rabbit from 1972 - 1980 that achieved 57 mpg on highway driving. Then I bought an Audi 4000 diesel that lasted for 400k miles and got 52 mpg highway.

Both were a bit sluggish to get on the highway but other than that they were real cruisers.

I wish I had the 4000 today.

[danmar]

BTW..beware of the new diesels. They now have what they call a ash pan. I understand on the VW that the ash pan cannot simply be emptied. It has to be taken off and a new one installed, and it COST $1000.00.

Ash pan?...what are you talking about?...I am a Cummins Diesel Certified and I never heard of an "ash pan" ever as a part of a Diesel set up. Than again it could be some sort of a VW emissions set up, which does not apply to everyone in Diesel business!