The average fuel efficiency of vehicles sold nationwide during the period 2000- 2004 was 25 miles per gallon; the corresponding figure during the period 1995- 1999 was 20 miles per gallon. The national average price of gasoline during the period 2000-2004 was $2 per gallon; the corresponding figure during the period 1995-1999 was $1.60 per gallon.

The statements above, if true, best support which of the following conclusions?


A) The average fuel efficiency of vehicles sold nationwide should reach 30 miles per gallon for the period 2005-2009.

B) The national average price of gasoline during 1997 was lower than the corresponding price during 2003.

C) Rising gasoline prices led consumers to purchase more fuel-efficient cars.

D) Between the two described time periods, the national average fuel efficiency and the national average gasoline price both increased at roughly the same rate.

E) Consumers spent more money on gasoline during the period 2000-2004 than during the period 1995-1999.