LS vs Vortec mpg ?'s

[rs74]

If I am going to put a FI engine in my C10 what should I be looking at for the most mpg's. I don't know if there would be difference between the two or not. I am just thinking a stock engine at this point with probably a 4l60e trans. Would on of the LS engines be better to have over a Vortec?

[1970 C10 MJW]

well what do you mean by vortec? because vortec has been an engine classification for pretty much all chevy trucks since the late 80s.... for purely MPGs I would imagine the 4.8L or 5.3 would be your best bet with the DOD and a 6l65e, if you really want the MPGs I think thats the best route... but other guys may have an opinion. Also the rear gear would make a huge difference, and tire size.....etc etc... what kind of driving will you do with it city? highway? both?

[rs74]

By vortec I was referreing the the 4.8,5.3,6.0l engines. I am doing a restoration on my 85 short bed c10. This is just going to be a toy more less. I just figure that by going to either one of these vortec or ls engines would get me much better mpg's and realiability. I would be content with a 4 speed auto trans. I am not sure of what gears I have now but I would say they might be 3.73's. It had 2.73's in it and the rear end now is much lower geared than the original.

I still want it to have some pep but get decent mileage if and when it gets taken on a long drive. 10 mpg just doesn't get it anymore. After getting this one done I am going to focus on doing the same truck except 4wd. So I am trying to research for it as well.

[Indian113]

I put a 2004 5.3 with a 700R4 and 3:42's in my 92 S10,I left the stock tune on my computer and I'm getting 20 mpg's at 65 on the highway. If I had it to do over I might have been as happy with a 4.8 for mileage. In my case the 5.3 makes more than enough power to put a smile on my face everytime I drive it.

[Clyde65]

I have a 4.8/4l60e/3.73 in my 65. I have gotten 20.5mpg on a 325 mile round trip to Abilene last fall. around town I get about 16-18 with mostly +/-45mph limits

[BR3W CITY]

I average 15/19 through a stalled 4l80e and 6.0 better than any other all steel hot rod I've ever had.