Is There 98-Octane Gasoline?
2 Answers
There is 98-octane gasoline, which is a type of gasoline with an octane rating equal to a mixture of 98% isooctane and 2% n-heptane. Gasoline is a volatile and flammable liquid hydrocarbon mixture obtained from the distillation, cracking, or pyrolysis of petroleum. At room temperature, it appears as a colorless to pale yellow, easily flowing liquid that is difficult to dissolve in water and highly flammable. The octane rating of gasoline refers to the ratio of the actual gasoline's anti-knock performance to that of standard gasoline. The higher the octane number, the stronger the anti-knock performance. Standard gasoline is composed of isooctane and n-heptane. However, a higher octane number does not necessarily mean better performance. The primary criterion for selecting gasoline octane is based on the engine's compression ratio. Mixing different octane grades can lead to incomplete combustion, carbon deposits, and a shortened engine lifespan.
As an average car owner with over a decade of driving experience, I often encounter the issue of whether gas stations offer 98-octane gasoline. Generally speaking, in major cities like Beijing and Shanghai, almost all Sinopec and PetroChina stations carry 98-octane fuel. I've noticed my engine runs much smoother when using it, making it particularly suitable for sports cars or high-compression ratio engines as it reduces knocking and enhances power output. However, it's harder to find in rural areas or small towns - last year during my hometown visit, I had to try two stations before finding one. Though slightly more expensive than 95-octane, it's worth the premium. I recommend checking station availability via apps beforehand to avoid wasted trips. For regular maintenance, I always advise friends to prioritize 98-octane, especially for highway driving where it better protects engine longevity. When unavailable for extended periods, 95-octane can serve as a temporary alternative.
