Frugal classics: fuel-sipping, mpg heroes

In the world of classic cars, fuel economy isn’t usually top of the priority list. We celebrate style, sound, and soul - not miles per gallon. Yet, among the greats, there’s a fascinating group of classics that prove you don’t need a bottomless fuel tank to enjoy the open road. From clever engineering to lightweight design, these frugal favourites remind us that efficiency and character can happily coexist. 

Whether you’re tightening your belt at the pump or simply love the idea of doing more miles for less, these mpg heroes show that saving fuel doesn’t mean sacrificing fun. 

Austin Mini 850 (1959–1967)

The original Mini wasn’t just a design revolution; it was a masterclass in efficiency. Its tiny 848cc engine returned around 45–50mpg – an astonishing figure for its era. Alec Issigonis’s clever packaging created a car that could seat four, handle like a go-kart, and sip petrol like a moped. Even today, a well-tuned classic Mini remains one of the most economical ways to enjoy classic motoring, with parts plentiful and running costs low. 

 

Fiat 500 (1957–1975)

Italy’s answer to affordable mobility, the original Cinquecento could manage around 55mpg thanks to its air-cooled 479cc twin-cylinder engine. Its featherweight construction and tiny dimensions made it as efficient as it was adorable. With values still sensible and mechanical simplicity in spades, the Fiat 500 continues to offer economical fun – especially in urban environments. 

Peugeot 205 diesel (1983–1998)

While the 205 GTI grabbed headlines, the lesser-spotted diesel variant quietly achieved near-legendary economy figures. The 205 GRD could return more than 60mpg on a steady run, while still offering the same nimble handling and solid French comfort as its petrol siblings. Today, it’s a rare but rewarding sight at classic shows – proof that diesel classics can have charm too. 

Mercedes-Benz 200D W123 (1976–1985)

Few cars better represent engineering integrity and thrift like the W123. Its naturally aspirated 2.0-litre diesel might not have been fast (0–60mph in 22 seconds), but it could cruise economically all day at 50-55mpg, covering intercontinental distances without complaint. Built to last, many examples are still running strong, making them one of the most practical long-distance classics around. 

Honda CR-X (1983–1991)

Before hybrid technology became mainstream, Honda was already blending performance and economy with the CR-X. The 1.5-litre HF model achieved up to 60mpg while retaining sharp handling and rev-happy fun. Lightweight construction, aerodynamic design, and bulletproof reliability make it a beloved ‘80s efficiency icon. 

Reliant Robin (1973–2002)

Yes, it had three wheels and was a nightmare to drive, but the Reliant Robin was one of the most fuel-efficient British vehicles ever made. Its lightweight fibreglass body and tiny 850cc engine could achieve up to 70mpg, making it the darling of thrifty motorists (and sitcom writers). Love it or laugh at it, the Robin’s economy was no joke – it made real sense in a time of high fuel prices. 

Austin Metro 1.0 (1980–1990)

Billed as ‘a British car to beat the world,’ the humble Metro was a success story for Austin Rover. With around 50mpg from its A-Series engine, the Metro was cheap to buy, cheap to run, and surprisingly fun to drive. Today, it’s a nostalgic symbol of 1980s motoring – and one of the most affordable entry points into classic ownership. 

Volkswagen Lupo 3L TDI (1998–2005)

Technically a youngtimer rather than a full classic, the Lupo 3L was a marvel of efficiency – the first production car to achieve 3 litres per 100km (94mpg). Lightweight aluminium components, low rolling resistance tyres, and aerodynamic shaping showed just how far engineering could push economy. With growing interest in efficient ‘modern classics’, the Lupo 3L’s cult following is only set to grow. 

Audi A2 (1999-2005)

Ahead of its time and, at that time, it was seen as just a Mercedes-Benz A-Class copycat, but it didn’t roll over when confronted by an elk and it was frugal: under certain circumstances, consumption for the 1.2 TDI model was low as just over 140mpg but that is if you drove like a granny and had the wind behind you on a downhill slope. However, that version of the Audi A2 won the ‘Nordic Eco Run’ fuel economy race in 2003, with a consumption 107.8mpg and even the normal versions with petrol engines were capable of 56mpg. How did it achieve that? Well, the A2 was built with a considerable amount of aluminium and aluminium alloy which yielded a kerbweight of just 830kgs.