Long Lines At Pump Reminiscent of Gas Crisis

May 3, 1996 - 5:16 p.m. EDT

Cars started lining up at 6 a.m. Friday at Mayfair Exxon, not because there was a shortage of fuel, but because of the promise of some very nostalgic prices.

Mayfair was selling gasoline for 24.9 cents per gallon Friday, and customer Sean Sullivan (below, right) said it was well worth the wait.

Listen toaufile.

The same gasoline at Mayfair usually costs $1.25, but despite the loss of profits, owner Terry Sauls (below, left) says it felt good to stand at the biggest bargain pump in town.

Listen toaufile.

The big sale was the product of a promotion by a local radio station, which offered three hours of free commercial air-time to the gas station willing to charge the lowest price for gas in a 'gas war'. Mayfair's bid was lowest.