1988 Volkswagen Cabriolet (Automatic 3-spd) MPG & Specs
Quick answer
The 1988 Volkswagen Cabriolet gets an EPA-estimated 19/22 MPG (city/highway) and 20 MPG combined, with an estimated $3,100/year fuel cost and 444.35 g/mi CO₂. Engine: 1.8 L 4-cyl.
The 1988 Volkswagen Cabriolet with the 1.8-liter 4-cylinder regular gasoline engine returns an EPA-estimated 19 MPG in the city and 22 MPG on the highway, for a combined 20 MPG. This page summarizes the official EPA fuel-economy and emissions data for this configuration.
| Engine | 1.8 L 4-cyl |
| Transmission | Automatic 3-spd |
| Drive | Front-Wheel Drive |
| Fuel type | Regular Gasoline |
| Vehicle class | Minicompact Cars |
| MPG — city | 19 |
| MPG — highway | 22 |
| MPG — combined | 20 |
| Annual fuel cost* | $3,100 |
| CO₂ tailpipe | 444.35 g/mi |
| EPA GHG score | — |
How efficient is it?
With a combined 20 MPG, the 1988 Volkswagen Cabriolet sits in the moderate range for fuel economy. That is about average for its class (Minicompact Cars, 22 MPG average).
Fuel economy and running costs
At about $3,100 per year in fuel (EPA estimate, 15,000 mi/yr), fuel is a major part of the cost of owning the 1988 Volkswagen Cabriolet. Over five years that is roughly $15,500 at today's prices — before insurance, maintenance, and depreciation.
Emissions
The 1988 Volkswagen Cabriolet emits approximately 444.35 grams of CO₂ per mile at the tailpipe. Lower emissions generally track higher fuel economy.
How to read these numbers
EPA figures come from standardized laboratory test cycles and are the same estimates shown on the vehicle's window sticker. Your real-world mileage depends on driving style, conditions, fuel grade, and maintenance. Use combined MPG and annual fuel cost to compare vehicles fairly.