1986 Chevrolet Spectrum
Fuel Economy Overview
The 1986 Chevrolet Spectrum achieves an EPA-estimated 34 MPG in combined city and highway driving, with 32 MPG in the city and 38 MPG on the highway. Powered by a 1.5L 4-cylinder engine paired with a manual 5-spd, this subcompact cars features Front-Wheel Drive drive.
In terms of environmental impact, the 1986 Spectrum produces approximately 261 grams of CO2 per mile. This figure is measured under standardized EPA test conditions and represents tailpipe emissions only. For context, the average new vehicle sold in the United States produces approximately 400 grams of CO2 per mile, meaning this Spectrum performs better than the national average in this regard.
The estimated annual fuel cost for this vehicle is $1,750, based on 15,000 miles of driving per year and current national average fuel prices. Compared to the average new vehicle, you would spend $2,000 over a 5-year period. This calculation accounts for differences in fuel consumption efficiency and provides a practical measure of long-term ownership costs attributable to fuel economy.
Energy DNA
Green Scorecard
Personalized Commute CalculatorEPA defaults to 55% City / 45% Hwy
Adjust the slider to match your daily driving habits. City driving involves stop-and-go traffic under 45mph, while highway driving represents sustained speeds over 55mph.
Aerodynamic Speed Penalty
EPA highway tests average roughly 48 mph. Driving at 75 mph increases aerodynamic drag exponentially. Expect your real-world highway fuel economy to drop by roughly 15-20% at interstate speeds.
5-Year Total Cost of Ownership
Recall Intelligence
VEHICLES MAY EXPERIENCE PERFORATION OF THE FUEL PUMP DIAPHRAGM. EXCESSIVE ALCOHOL CONTENT IN THE FUEL PROMOTES DEGRADATION OF THE DIAPHRAGM COATING RESULTING IN RADIAL CRACKING OF THE DIAPHRAGM.
Consequence & Remedy
Consequence: A PERFORATED DIAPHRAGM CAN ALLOW FUEL TO LEAK FROM THEFUEL PUMP INTO THE UNDERHOOD AREA. THIS COULD ULTIMATELY RESULT IN ANUNDERHOOD FIRE WITHOUT PRIOR WARNING. SUCH A FIRE COULD SPREAD TO THEPASSENGER COMPARTMENT.
Remedy: A FUEL VENTILATION HOSE KIT WILL BE INSTALLED TO PREVENT FUEL FROM ESCAPING INTO THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT IF THE FUEL PUMP DIAPHRAGM LEAKS AND THEREBY REDUCE THE POSSIBILITY OF AN UNDERHOOD FIRE.
Loading live complaint data...
Looking for comprehensive historical data?
NHTSA FARS (Fatal Crash History) and broader generational safety trends are aggregated at the model level rather than by specific engine configurations. View the complete historical data profile for all Chevrolet Spectrum configurations.
Similar 1986 Subcompact Cars Alternatives
1986 Honda Civic
1.3L 4-cyl Front-Wheel Drive
1986 Isuzu I-Mark
1.5L 4-cyl Front-Wheel Drive
1986 Pontiac Sunburst
1.5L 4-cyl Front-Wheel Drive
1986 Dodge Colt
1.5L 4-cyl Front-Wheel Drive
1986 Mitsubishi Mirage
1.5L 4-cyl Front-Wheel Drive
1986 Plymouth Colt
1.5L 4-cyl Front-Wheel Drive
Fuel Cost Analysis
Based on 15,000 miles/year and current fuel prices.
Efficiency Breakdown
Estimated Lifetime Carbon Footprint
(Based on 200,000 miles driven)