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140 comments on Turning down the AC

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AlanfromBigEasy on March 9, 2006 - 11:37am Permalink | Subthread | Parent | Comments top
Up to low to mid-80s (F) outside temperature, I open the sunroof on my 1982 Mercedes Benz 240D.  I have "premium" reflective film put on the car to reduce heat loading. And it is white, the one color that significantly reduces heat gain.  And I keep it waxed with a nice reflective wax (Turtle Platinum).

I also use LEDs for marker lights and am considering HID conversion for headlights (brighter, 35 watts instead of 55 watts on low for each headlight).

Synthetic fluids all round.  Mobil 1 in engine & differential, M-B in manual transmission, Valvoline in Power Steering and brakes.

Result 31 mpg city, 35 to 42 mpg highway (depending upon speed) and a car that will last my lifetime, barring accidents.

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Fletcher on March 9, 2006 - 1:52pm Permalink | Subthread | Parent | Comments top
Our 1983 240D remains our favorite car - "under-powered is howthe mechanic described it; but we loved it with manual transmission, sunroof and pretty good mileage.  As a confirmed claustophobe, I like a sun roof, and find that it vents the car well and does provide fresh air, especially for the back seat. Alas after ~380K, it sought late retirment in a local auto retirment community
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