Once you sit down and think about it, it kinda makes sense that a Y runs more efficiently. Consider the delta "diagram" below:
Code:
3
/\
/ \
A B
/ \
/ \
1____C_____2
Points 1, 2 , 3 are where the motor wires go. Points A, B, C are the coils. If you apply power to points 3 and 1, the majority of the current will go through coil A, but some will also go through coils B and C. The current through B and C will be less since those coils are effectively in series. Just think of coil A in parallel with coils B and C in series. So, even though coil A is supposed to be the only one energized, coils B and C will be also and will provide some resistance.
This is how I see it anyway, so please correct me if I am wrong.