I've had both extremes... Zetec/ATX to SVT. Both cars got about the same mileage, with the SVT netting more on the highway (80-85mph). I'm usually getting 22-24mpg city and 26-30 highway.
The lowest I've ever seen was with my Zetec down in Texas with +110�°F and who-knows-how-old spark plugs/wires. Was about 18mpg.