Of course. YMMV (literally), I suppose. My ICE Nissan seems highly variable while my SO's Ford seems pretty accurate. Maybe it's just the difference in driving habits :-)

The mileage you and your dad got was probably pretty significantly different based on driving style, location etc. Just accelerating quickly off stops can end up having a noticeable effect on overall mileage. You were just willing to accept a much less accurate and imprecise number as “pretty accurate” and when the fuel went down too much you filled it anyways.

I’ve never driven a car to empty ever. I wouldn’t with a Tesla either.