Re: Driving comparisons between the Packard Six and 120.

Posted by Ross On 2012/7/7 9:07:29

Once upon a time a fellow wrote to the engineering department at Studebaker asking which equipment to buy to get the very best gas mileage. The reply in essence was to order the transmission and axle ratio that would keep the engine as close as possible to its peak torque rpm at the intended driving speed.

Peak torque represents the engine's most efficient breathing and combustion scenario, so this makes sense.

I took this advice and set up a 62 Lark six and overdrive with of all things a 4.3(?) axle as its torque peak comes rather high. This was a most satisfactory combination that gave great flexibility and performance well beyond what one would expect for a little 170. Oh, and the mileage was outstanding.