2.6 still goes quite well, but is not very economical.
Not sure if it is gearing or the lower CR, but mist of the 3.x seem to get better consumption than the 2.6s.
The best 2.6s are similar in flat out performance to a 3.0 not in peak condition, but a lot less low end torque.
I have owned a 3.0 and a 2.6, the 3.0 was torquier but flat out the 2.6 is faster on acceleration (3mph on my test road).
HOWEVER
2.6 has 3.0 cams and ported heads, the 3.0 had an LPG ECU clogging the air box.
Assuming both were autos...
Your 3.0l must have been a right dog then

A well serviced 2.6 manual, with all the tweaks (ie, Dundee's) driven by a very capable driver, didn't beat a slightly neglected Silver Bullet (3.0l auto) driven by a fat idiot on that runway, but held it honest until the extra capacity really kicks in hard
