I can't think of how the ignition switch could affect the MPG.....
I can argue that 50 miles is a pretty low number to work with as far as MPG.... I'm curious what happens after 250miles.
If you're interested in driving a couple hours North, Portland Club Grand Prix has regular gatherings to work on cars, race, show or whatever. We are gathering this Saturday(3/3/07) to work on cars, and go to pizza afterward.