MPG gains with K&N
 

I own a '97 s-10 with a 4.3 liter V6. I currently get 16-18 Mpg city/22 Highway. I would like some suggestions on high performance air filter(K&N, Air Hog) as to whether I should purchase one for the better mileage. I am a full time student, and Spend almost $55 dollars weekly on fuel. With fuel prices up, i'd like to assess my options.

You'll see a marginal improvement, but that reason alone isn't enough to buy one. A better reason would be that the K&N reusable filter is much more economical.

Changing an air filter rarely has any dramatic effect on anything. You'll net marginal gains in power and fuel economy, but that reason alone isn't enough to put one in an otherwise stock configuration.

It takes quite a distance to make much difference. Be generous and hope for 10% improvement. That's ~3200 miles before you break even. (3200,20MPG,$2.5gas) Expect worse but some engines do better than others. Depends on the original system. You save a bit cleaning vs. throwing away the filter. If you're keeping the vehicle it might be worth it. If you're looking for quick gains you'll do better to lighten the right foot.

Thanks Guys