What are the benefits of using higher octane gasoline?
2 Answers
Using higher octane gasoline can increase power for high-compression ratio engines. Here is an introduction to the advantages and disadvantages of using higher octane gasoline in cars: Disadvantages of using higher octane gasoline in low-compression ratio engines: Since the cylinder pressure does not reach a certain value, the higher octane gasoline is not sufficiently compressed to reach the ignition point, resulting in incomplete combustion. Therefore, it cannot fully utilize the engine's power, not only wasting fuel but also easily causing carbon deposits in the engine, which may not be worth the loss. Advantages of using higher octane gasoline in high-compression ratio engines: In addition to using the appropriate gasoline for the vehicle, high-compression ratio engines can also use relatively higher octane gasoline. Because the octane value is higher, and the high-compression ratio engine can make it burn more completely, which helps provide more power for the car.
As an ordinary person who drives frequently, I find using higher-octane gasoline like 98 octane totally worth it. It makes my car's engine run super smoothly – those annoying knocking sounds I occasionally got with 92 octane are now almost gone. The acceleration response is also more fluid, especially when starting on slopes or overtaking on highways, with noticeably more power and reduced engine vibration. I've heard it burns more completely, reducing carbon buildup inside the engine, which might mean longer intervals between maintenance and potential savings on repair costs. My car is a regular family vehicle with a manual recommending 95 octane, but after trying 98 octane, I feel much more at ease driving it. Though slightly more expensive, peace of mind outweighs the extra cost. In practice, fuel efficiency is marginally better (though not significantly), but overall driving quality has improved. If the engine isn't high-performance, there's no need to force an upgrade; it ultimately depends on personal habits and the vehicle's condition.
