Fuel Savings Calculator
Compare two vehicles' fuel economy at your annual mileage and fuel price to see the yearly savings, and how long a pricier, more efficient vehicle takes to pay for the difference.
EIA weekly average, week of September 14, 2026 -- a starting point, not your local price.
How much more B costs upfront than A, if anything.
Vehicle A annual fuel cost
$1,908.55
Vehicle B annual fuel cost
$1,312.13
B saves per year
$596.42
Payback period
7.5 yr
on B's price premium
How it's calculated
Each vehicle's annual fuel cost is computed independently at the same annual miles and price, then compared:
annual savings = vehicle A's annual fuel cost − vehicle B's annual fuel cost
payback (years) = B's price premium ÷ annual savings
Worked example
The calculator's own defaults: 22 mpg vs. 32 mpg (both US), 12,000 annual miles, gas at $3.50/gal, with vehicle B costing $4,500.00 more upfront.
| Vehicle A annual fuel cost | $1,908.55 |
| Vehicle B annual fuel cost | $1,312.13 |
| Annual savings | $596.42 |
| Payback period | 7.5 years |
Frequently Asked Questions
How is the payback period calculated?
Vehicle B's price premium (how much more it costs upfront than vehicle A) is divided by the annual fuel savings B produces. If B doesn't actually save money, or there's no price difference entered, there's no payback period to show -- the fuel-only math never favors A over B in that case.
Does this account for financing, taxes or resale value?
No -- it's a pure fuel-cost comparison at your entered annual miles and fuel price. Financing terms, sales tax, incentives and resale value all affect the real total cost of owning either vehicle and aren't part of this calculation; the Cost Per Mile Calculator can add maintenance and insurance for a fuller running-cost picture.
What annual miles figure should I use?
Your own realistic yearly total, not an average -- 12,000-15,000 miles/year is a common US estimate, but your actual commute and driving habits will swing the payback period meaningfully in either direction.
Can I compare a gas car against an EV here?
This calculator assumes both vehicles share one economy unit and one fuel price, which works for two gas (or two diesel) vehicles. For a gas-vs-EV comparison, use the EV Charging Cost Calculator, which prices each side in its own units.
These are estimates; real consumption varies with driving, load and conditions. This site isn't affiliated with any vehicle manufacturer, utility, or the US Energy Information Administration -- see the Terms.