So you're telling me that wind resistance is exactly equal at 80 versus 60 MPH? I don't know what physics you studied, but it wasn't what I took. It's true that cars today cruise more comfortably at higher speeds, but wind is still there, and gearing still plays a vital role in mileage. For the Contuor at least, the biggest problem is getting going. 1st gear is so short. This car needs a CVT or an additional ratio between 1st and 2nd badly.
The Explorer has a 5-speed auto (OD clutch band is applied to 1st giving a 2nd speed between 1 and 2) and it is amazing how much smoother it is. Mileage is usually 20/25 for me. Not too bad. There's a member on Explorer 4X4 who gets 30 with the same vehicle because he uses all synthetic fluids with an electric fan and always tracks his speed and keeps it around 75 or slightly below on the interstate. His son took the same vehicle and went 80-82 and dropped the mileage by over 3. Speed kills.
I've been in F-bodies that can get 30 MPG on the highway. It's amazing how tall that T-56's 6-speed is, but speed is still the factor in every circumstance.
