Fuel-cost calculator for the decision before the test drive
MPG differences stop feeling abstract once converted into gallons, cost per mile and a five-year fuel budget. This tool calculates transparently and does not invent local fuel pricing.
Live result
$1,234
updated as you type
Formula: annual gallons = miles ÷ MPG. Annual fuel cost = gallons × price/gal. Planning baseline only; local prices, premium fuel, weather and real-world economy vary.
Fuel used / year
342.9 gal
35.0 MPG over 12,000 miles
Annual fuel cost
$1,234
$10 per 100 miles
Five-year fuel budget
$6,171
same mileage and price assumptions
Trip fuel cost
$26
250 miles at 0.103 per mile
Efficient-choice saving
$404
52.0 MPG comparison, over one year
Five-year saving
$2,018
why a 5–8 MPG gap matters more than MSRP
How to read the results like a buyer
First compare annual gallons. If one car uses hundreds fewer gallons per year, the savings compound even before price shocks. Then compare five-year fuel against the purchase price difference: a lower-priced, less efficient car can cost more over ownership.
Real-world MPG usually runs 10–15% below combined EPA figures because cold starts, speed, traffic, tires and weather are not included in lab certification. Use EPA combined for shoppers and actual fill-up averages for your current car.