Well, I remember my first car. 72 cutlass. However, that was when gas was still near 1$ a gallon. Even then it would cost me a good 20$ to fill it. I personally say, go with a big six, like a 3800 or a 4.3 L. OD is almost a need if you want to get any type of gas mileage. If you do need a V8, remember, Big blocks create ungodly torque, but cost you. Small blocks can be made to move healthily down the road and get good gas mileage if you dont go too radical. And, remember, pontiacs and oldsmobiles cost less than Chevys in many cases and can be made to do just as well. So, when your looking at the monty carlo, dont forget the cutlass and the grand prix. I personally was looking for a GTO or Chevelle when I got my Cutlass. I never regretted it.