What Type of Cars Use 85 Octane Gasoline?
3 Answers
85 octane gasoline is suitable for cars with an engine compression ratio below 10. The octane rating of gasoline represents its octane number, with higher ratings indicating higher octane content. Gasoline is a volatile and flammable liquid hydrocarbon mixture obtained from petroleum through distillation, cracking, or pyrolysis, and is used as fuel. It appears as a transparent liquid and primarily consists of aliphatic hydrocarbons, naphthenes, and a certain amount of aromatic hydrocarbons. Gasoline can be classified based on different sources into: straight-run gasoline, catalytic cracking gasoline, thermal cracking gasoline, reforming gasoline, coking gasoline, alkylation gasoline, isomerization gasoline, aromatization gasoline, etherification gasoline, and polymerization gasoline. The characteristics of gasoline include: 1. Volatility; 2. Stability; 3. Anti-knock properties; 4. Corrosiveness; 5. Cleanliness.
I live in the mountainous areas of Colorado and often see 85-octane gasoline, which is primarily used for regular gasoline vehicles in high-altitude regions, such as common family cars like the Toyota Corolla or Honda Civic. Due to the thinner air at higher elevations, the risk of engine knocking is lower, allowing lower-octane fuel to operate safely. My old car's manual states that it can use 87-octane or higher, so using 85-octane here saves money, and it feels like a good deal when refueling. However, high-performance cars like the Ford Mustang or turbocharged models are not suitable for this fuel, as it can easily damage the engine. Therefore, when traveling to lower altitudes, it's necessary to switch back to higher-octane fuel. Choosing the right fuel ensures smooth operation and worry-free long-distance driving.
As someone who has been driving for thirty years, 85 octane gasoline is commonly used in areas with altitudes over 1,000 meters, such as the western United States. It has a lower octane rating and less knocking, making it suitable for regular engines in non-turbocharged cars like the Chevrolet Malibu. If your car's manual specifies a minimum of 87 octane, using 85 at high altitudes is fine; if it's below that standard, don't take the risk, as it may increase the chance of carbon buildup. Gas stations usually indicate the recommended vehicle types, so pay attention to save money and protect your car. This fuel is common in mountainous states and is cheaper, helping me save a lot on gas, but don't use it in high-performance cars to avoid higher repair costs.
