What Octane Gasoline Should Borgward Cars Use?
2 Answers
Borgward models equipped with naturally aspirated engines require 92-octane gasoline, while those with turbocharged engines need 95-octane gasoline. You can check the manufacturer's recommended gasoline grade on the fuel tank cap when refueling. It is essential to choose the correct gasoline grade for your car. Most turbocharged engines require 95-octane gasoline because the temperature and pressure inside the cylinders are relatively high during operation. Note that using lower-grade gasoline can easily cause engine knocking, which is an abnormal combustion phenomenon harmful to the engine. Severe knocking can even lead to connecting rod deformation or piston explosion. Higher-octane gasoline has a higher octane rating and better stability. Knocking occurs during the engine's compression stroke when the intake and exhaust valves are closed. At this time, the piston moves upward to compress the combustible mixture. After compression, the temperature and pressure of the combustible mixture increase. If the gasoline's stability is poor, the combustible mixture may ignite prematurely. The burning mixture will push the piston downward while it is moving upward, affecting the engine's power output and fuel economy. Therefore, it is recommended to always choose the correct gasoline grade when refueling.
I've been driving a Borgward BX7 for three years, and the manual clearly states that 95-octane gasoline is optimal. The turbocharged engine has a high compression ratio, and using lower-octane fuel can easily cause knocking, which can significantly damage the engine over time. When refueling, I always check the pump to confirm it's 95-octane. Occasionally, when traveling to remote areas where 95-octane isn't available, I'll temporarily fill up with a tank of 92-octane as an emergency measure, but I can clearly feel the throttle response become sluggish. During maintenance, the technician specifically reminded me that sticking to 95-octane can reduce carbon buildup and extend the lifespan of the spark plugs. Although I spend an extra hundred or so yuan on fuel each month, considering the potential repair costs, it's still more cost-effective to stick with 95-octane.
