Which Type of Fuel Has Octane Rating?
3 Answers
Currently, the gasoline sold in the market is unleaded, with grades such as 90, 93, 95, and 97. These numbers indicate the octane rating of the gasoline. Motor Octane Number (MON): The testing conditions are more stringent, with an engine speed of 900 r/min and an intake temperature of 149°C. It reflects the anti-knock performance of gasoline under high-speed and heavy-load driving conditions. Research Octane Number (RON): The testing conditions are milder, with a speed of 600 r/min and intake at room temperature. This octane rating reflects the anti-knock performance of gasoline during slow urban driving. For the same gasoline, its RON is about 0 to 15 units higher than its MON, and the difference between the two is called sensitivity.
Octane rating is something only gasoline has, and it's an indicator of anti-knock performance. I've been driving my own car for years and always pay attention to the gasoline grade. Those numbers like 92 and 95 represent the octane rating. Higher octane means less engine knocking and smoother operation. I once tried saving money by using lower octane fuel, and my car shook violently during acceleration with noticeable power loss - I even wasted money replacing spark plugs. Now I've developed a habit of checking the fuel grade every time I refuel, especially before long trips, to ensure it's 95 octane. Octane rating affects fuel efficiency and emissions, with higher grades being more suitable for high-performance vehicles. Remember to match the fuel to your vehicle type and avoid frequently switching brands to prevent issues.
Octane number is a unique property of gasoline, used to measure its anti-knock capability, which other fuels like diesel or motor oil do not possess. Gasoline grades such as 92 and 95 represent the octane value—the higher the number, the better it prevents explosive combustion inside the engine. I’m familiar with this because I often help friends with their cars. High-octane gasoline can improve engine efficiency and reduce noise, especially during uphill climbs or acceleration. When refueling, always refer to the vehicle manual for the recommended grade—standard cars usually suffice with 92, while racing engines may require 98. Octane ratings are achieved by adding anti-knock agents, but this isn’t applicable to all fuels; diesel uses a cetane number standard instead. Using the wrong type may increase fuel consumption or damage components, so be cautious.
