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Thread ID: 90223 2008-05-27 03:46:00 91 vs 95 Octane nofam (9009) PC World Chat
Post ID Timestamp Content User
672991 2008-05-27 03:46:00 Had one of those classic pub conversations-turned-arguments last night about newer vehicles that can run either octane rating actually being more economical on 95 .

Theories abounded, but the consensus was that the engine didn't have to work as hard (on 95), so this more than offset the higher price-per-litre . . . .

What have you guys found?
nofam (9009)
672992 2008-05-27 03:49:00 '93 Bluebird SR20.

I get a consistent 50km - 100km more off a tank of 95 rather than 91.

Better pick up, and smoother running also.

On the newer cars, I'm not so sure it makes as big of a difference.

Parents '92 Estima is the same again - and way better on 98 than 95.

Haven't really got a new car to test it on. :dogeye: But if you wanted to supply your Mazda for testing purposes... :p
wratterus (105)
672993 2008-05-27 03:59:00 Yeah, well I was actually arguing the same as you Wrat - the Mazdagini does seem better on 95 (actually only run it on 95 when driving on long trips). Newer cars like mine have computerized timing/anti-knock adjustment etc so it can run just as well on either.

Might have to bust out the clipboard and white lab coat, and get all scientific n stuff!! :D
nofam (9009)
672994 2008-05-27 04:08:00 I have a supercharged V6 and the manufacturer states I must run 95 to help stop pre-detonation....I get 10L to 100km on open road when using CC SolMiester (139)
672995 2008-05-27 06:47:00 The only cars here in the US that actually REQUIRE high-test fuel are the Volvos . . . and maybe a RR and Ferrari or so .

I have a feeling that NZ octane ratings are NOT the same as US . . because it's the law here that everything but some special (and I don't know why a Volvo is special!) cars must run on 87 R+M/2 rating .

Actually both 87 and 89 Octane rates will start a BBQ equally well if you can get them to burn .
SurferJoe46 (51)
672996 2008-05-27 10:11:00 Well, anything with a turbo will probably benefit from the higher octane due to the high effective compression ratio with max boost; Most used imports seem to need it - I believe there is no fuel as low as 91 octane in Japan except for spirit stoves. If you conscientiously record your running costs for a few tankfuls of each grade you can soon tell which is the most cost effective. For my current car 96 is the best value, the previous one preferred 98. YMMV ;) R2x1 (4628)
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