shaman

iTrader: (1)

I’m wanting something boosted, probably on E85 or pump+meth, and wanting to get deep into the 30’s MPG wise on the highway when staying off the go pedal. I know that E85 mpg would be lower, but cost per mile is harder to quantify than MPG, but let’s worry about that in another thread. I’d really like a sedan (for the increased visibility and room, but in the price range ($8000 done), I don’t see any SS/TC sedans, or even any HHRs. There are a few HP tuners in the area, so the tuning should be taken care of. Meth kit would be top of the line kit mirroring IDC with a pulse width modulated valve. Just wondering if the increased compression ratio and work would be “worth it” for the extra MPG/power compared to a bone stock to Stage 2 LSJ. I don’t race, and the power number is there as I want something similar to the 250hp/230ft-lb of the car I have, in a smaller package with a stick for enjoying the roads in Kentucky.

nhanson

iTrader: (1)

Probably LSJ is the most cost effective.

You wont get any good mileage with E85 but it is cheaper.

andrewcarr1993

iTrader: (5)

I'd try to fine a 06-07 SS/NA with a 5 speed and the sedan. They have a stronger engine (close to the LSJ I'd say) so you don't have to worry as much about building it although the 2.2 should be able to take it. I'd then go and get a SC kit for about $1800 total including a new clutch a tune and run a 2.8'' pulley.

shaman

iTrader: (1)

NHanson, i mentioned the dollar per mile for the E85 instead of MPG as a comparison as it's the only way to be fair to E85.

The 93/meth would need an Intense spacer, or 3 more jets and the ZZP spacer, as I don't know if I want to go pre-blower, especially with the W/A IC in there.

Andrew, I haven’t seen an SS/NA listed for sale since before I left Texas. I’d like to find one, but it seems it would be in SS/SC or IRL price range based on the one I saw.

nhanson

iTrader: (1)

I would say E85 is the preferred method over meth...safer.

shaman

iTrader: (1)

I already have the kit, so the spacer and install would be the only thing. I see that the LSJ has an overboost feature, and I am wondering if it could be triggered by a meth kit to drop boost or pull timing

shaman

iTrader: (1)

Just found an SS/NA now that i said they are rare

2006 Chevrolet cobalt SS

andrewcarr1993

iTrader: (5)

It's okay, but I'd try for the 5 speed. Don't get me wrong though add a SC with supporting mods, 2.8 pulley and a trans cooler and it's cheaper (no clutch) but not nearly as fun. The trans will easily hold that as long as it can stay cool (cooler or don't have a heavy foot).

shaman

iTrader: (1)

Don't think auto and MPG belong in the same sentence do they?

andrewcarr1993

iTrader: (5)

They actually are quite good, although yes the manual will be better for MPG.

shaman

iTrader: (1)

The manual is a requirement for the hills here. downshifting and upshifting at part throttle is bugging me in the the current car, and I am sure the current trans isn't a fan either. Besides, I don't like things thinking they are smarter than me, that is my wife's job.

nhanson

iTrader: (1)

I love my auto.

Before supercharging I could slip the belt with how quick of a shift I had it at. Havent touched the tune recently though.

2.2balt

I have a 5spd 2.2 supercharged with 3.1" pulley. Its not bad on gas. I run 94, and on a trip to Toronto and back I can get 600km to a tank np. In the city, I can get about 400-450km per tank...being not so easy on it.

So far its been reliable as well. No internals done or anything, but I have done the clutch already too.

Cherry GT

OH YES THEY DO !
I get 45+ @55
or 40+ @65.

2.4 turbo AUTOMATIC

alexofnazareth

With a larger turbo, you shouldnt have issues hitting high 30s, though I dont necessarily consider that to be a very ambitious goal.

shaman

iTrader: (1)

Alex, what would you consider ambitious MPG wise for an LSJ, or a blown 2.2 or 4?

DFZ24

iTrader: (5)

I would like to add that mpg is also determine by the tune you run, have a guy that had a boosted lsj 20g doing well over 30mpg hwy

alexofnazareth

^this. If you tune it properly, have a large enough turbo/stay out of boost, I dont see why you couldnt get 40+.

Im going high comp + boost and my goal is to continue to see 48mpg @ 65mph, of course my **** box is several hundred pounds lighter than the cobalts.

shaman

iTrader: (1)

If I was building an engine, I would run high compression with a big turbo

Pinky Demon

iTrader: (1)

Stock LSJ or LNF. You will spend thousands trying to mod a car for decent fuel economy and power when you could achieve decent results with the base SS/SC or SS/TC platform.

andrewcarr1993

iTrader: (5)

Old thread now.