6-Cylinder vs. V8
#1
6-Cylinder vs. V8
I used to have a 1966 289 convertible and now am shopping for a 1965 - 1966 fastback. With the prices for these having gone up so much in recent years, I am considering doing something that I would not have done 10 years ago - looking into 6-Cylinder models. Never having driven a 6-cylinder, I was wondering if anyone could tell me their impressions of these motors, and in particular if the gas mileage is really any different from a 289 and if the power/pick-up is sufficient when operating AC and power steering. Thanks much for any insight!
#3
6-Cylinder vs. V8
When I bought mine it was a 200 6. I bought it because it was a fastback, and in decent shape. I promptly switched the 200 for a 351W. But I must say while the 200 was no rocket it did have some pep. And the mileage was really good, like in the 20's. While I have no regrets for the swap, I thought the 200 was a respectable engine.
#5
6-Cylinder vs. V8
buy a 6 and use the extra cash to drop a fuel injected v-8 in there. Restomods have almost an equivelant value these days to the bottom barrel 289 cars. Better yet, buy a Falcon and stuff it with a good motor.
#7
6-Cylinder vs. V8
I owned a 67 coupe I-6 without A/C and I can tell you that the 6 cyl is a good running motor. I've seen a number of people use 6 cyl. engines and really hook them up as for performance, etc... Parts are just as easy to find for them as it is a 289 or 302. </P>
As for with A/C, I couldn't say ... I've never personally seen a 6 cyl with A/C though I've known of it to be a stock option. I imagine that the loss in power would be simaler to say that of a 3.8L V-6 engine found in Mustangs today. Gas milage is better with a I-6, naturally, and it does have some power behind it.</P>
Hope this helps. <IMG src=smileys/smiley16.gif border="0"></P>
#8
6-Cylinder vs. V8
My mustang has a 15,000 mile rebuilt 200 6. It will not win any races,but it gets you to where you want to go with some acceleration power. I do have an aftermarket a/c on mine, and it was working until a moron backed into my baby at Walmart and pressed the hood latch support into the condensor. Anyway there was a noticable loss of power when the A/C was on. If I was in the postion to buy a classic Mustang I would go with a V8, if this 200 6 ever dies it will be replaced with something more powerful.</P>
#9
6-Cylinder vs. V8
I have a 200, and on the good weeks in Texas, without ac gas mileage is great, and power loss is a major factor with the AC. The 200 will get up and go without a question, but I drove a 289, and the acceleration is nice to have. Like dave said when my 200 goes I smell a V-8. Until that day I will sit happy with mine.