Miles/gallon: Newer vs Older Cars

really, my take are a few things. fuel injection burns so clean. Always changing to maintain A/F ratio. As stated, cars run a much lower rpm now because of more gears. More gears keep the car in its' best torque operating range for better mileage by using less pedal. Aerodynamics, wind resistant matters, especially at speeds above 50 mph. Tires are players in this too. Rolling resistance is less with todays "all rim and no tire" approach. Todays cars can have a flat and still look like it's ready to drive. Suspension actually helps. Suspension can rob performance and a little gas mileage in city driving.

as stated, all the safety features and electronic conveniences have added weight, which has taken back a little of the gas mileage. EPA regulations actually defeats their own purpose by making cars less fuel efficient, and that takes back a little of the gained mpg.