How much power is lost through a 518

Small blocks 340/360 get about the same mileage it doesn't matter what you do.
If you veer from stock cam into performance cams... the mileage just goes down at a certain point.
15-17mpg.
318, little better .now Slant 6... 40 mpg ,mother f'r, just ask any slant owner. Lol jk

But you're right. Slant guys who got 35 plus MPG are around every corner. Just wait. One will be along any minute.