What Type of Gas Does a Maserati Use?
2 Answers
Maserati vehicles require 95 octane or higher gasoline. This fuel grade is recommended in the car's official owner's manual. In addition to checking the appropriate gasoline grade in the owner's manual, you can also find it on the fuel tank cap, which will be clearly marked. Generally, the fuel grade can also be determined based on the engine's compression ratio. Cars with an engine compression ratio between 8.6-9.9 should use 92 octane gasoline, while those with a compression ratio between 10.0-11.5 should use 95 octane gasoline. If the compression ratio is higher, 98 octane gasoline is recommended. However, with the use of new technologies, the compression ratio alone cannot determine the appropriate gasoline grade. High compression ratio engines can also be tuned to use lower octane gasoline. This is because factors other than compression ratio, such as ignition timing, turbocharging technology, and Atkinson cycle technology, also play a role. Generally, the higher the gasoline grade, the higher the octane rating and the better the anti-knock performance. 92 octane gasoline contains 92% isooctane and 8% n-heptane, while 95 octane gasoline contains 95% isooctane and 5% n-heptane. If you occasionally use the wrong gasoline grade in a Maserati, simply switch back to the correct grade after refueling. However, long-term use of the wrong gasoline grade can have the following effects: Using a higher octane gasoline in a vehicle designed for a lower grade will not cause damage, but the increased octane rating can alter the fuel's ignition point, leading to delayed combustion in the engine. This reduces the engine's power output and thermal efficiency, resulting in poorer performance. Using a lower octane gasoline in a vehicle designed for a higher grade can cause engine knocking. Because the octane rating is too low, the fuel's ignition point decreases, causing premature ignition during the compression stroke. If combustion occurs before the spark plug fires, resistance is created during the upward stroke. This resistance makes the engine run very unstably. Mild knocking may only increase noise without significant engine damage, but severe knocking indicates serious engine issues. The vibrations not only affect driving stability but can also cause abnormal wear on the pistons and cylinders, potentially leading to engine seizure.
I think Maserati cars are best suited for 98-octane gasoline. I personally tested it on my friend's car, and using lower octane fuel made the engine sound louder and the acceleration less smooth. The manual usually recommends 98-octane because it's a high-performance sports car with a high engine compression ratio. Using 95-octane or lower can easily cause knocking—that metallic knocking sound—and prolonged use can damage the engine, making repairs a hassle. Occasionally, if you can't find 98-octane at the gas station, 95-octane will do in a pinch, but don't make it a habit, especially after aggressive driving, as it's not great for the car. If you're looking to save money, think of it this way: 98-octane may be more expensive, but it protects the engine's lifespan, ultimately saving you on repair costs.
