UK & Ireland S2000 Community Discussions related to the S2000, its ownership and enthusiasm for it in the UK and Ireland. Including FAQs, and technical questions.

How problematic is it to only use 95 Octane?

Thread Tools
 
Old Dec 9, 2004 | 08:04 AM
  #1  
Finesse's Avatar
Thread Starter
Registered User
 
Joined: Nov 2004
Posts: 85
Likes: 0
Default How problematic is it to only use 95 Octane?


Given the comments I was reading on an earlier thread (Fuel tank), I started to wonder how performance, economy and general wear & tear is affected by not using the higher 98 Octane - particularly as there isn't a garage within 20 miles of me that stocks it

I suspect there is a difference, but how noticeable is it? Also does it cause any long term harm/damage?


Finesse
Reply
Old Dec 9, 2004 | 08:09 AM
  #2  
euan's Avatar
Registered User
 
Joined: Oct 2002
Posts: 10,138
Likes: 0
From: Lothians
Default

There is a noticeable difference - you get a sharper throttle response on Optimax certainly.

Using it long term won't cause any damage though, although IMO it does help a "highly strung" engine to run smoother.

Make sure it's a reputable source though - little known or supermarket brands may have less dtergents in them IIRC.
Reply
Old Dec 9, 2004 | 08:14 AM
  #3  
Neil.H's Avatar
Registered User
20 Year Member
 
Joined: Dec 2003
Posts: 9,065
Likes: 0
From: London
Default

AFAIK the low octance won't cause any damage as such, but the ECU will pull the timing back to prevent knocking/ detonation and you may be down a few bhp. I think the quality of the fuel may be more of a concern, poor quality fuel tends to be lacking in cleaning additives etc, but I'm sure someone more knowledgable will be along to give a proper answer.
Reply
Old Dec 9, 2004 | 09:35 AM
  #4  
honpar's Avatar
Registered User
 
Joined: Jan 2003
Posts: 736
Likes: 0
From: narborough
Default

I've had to use 95 for the last 2 years. Touch wood I've had no problems.
Reply
Old Dec 9, 2004 | 09:58 AM
  #5  
AquilaEagle's Avatar
Administrator
Gold Member (Premium)
20 Year Member
Liked
Loved
Community Favorite
 
Joined: Jan 2002
Posts: 95,183
Likes: 69
From: Heath & Reach, Beds, UK
Default

Where do you live?!
Reply
Old Dec 9, 2004 | 10:33 AM
  #6  
Agent Wild's Avatar
Registered User
 
Joined: Mar 2004
Posts: 175
Likes: 0
From: Livingston
Default

Originally Posted by honpar,Dec 9 2004, 10:35 AM
I've had to use 95 for the last 2 years. Touch wood I've had no problems.
Other than a top speed of 83 MPH, 125 BHP and can only use 1st, 2nd and 3rd gears.
Reply
Old Dec 9, 2004 | 10:39 AM
  #7  
GSi's Avatar
GSi
Registered User
 
Joined: Oct 2002
Posts: 14,723
Likes: 0
Default

Originally Posted by AquilaEagle,Dec 9 2004, 06:58 PM
Where do you live?!
narborough I'm guessing...
Reply

Trending Topics

Old Dec 9, 2004 | 11:29 AM
  #8  
GTFCTIM's Avatar
Registered User
 
Joined: Nov 2004
Posts: 30,526
Likes: 0
From: Nr Grimsby
Default

Originally Posted by Finesse,Dec 9 2004, 05:04 PM
particularly as there isn't a garage within 20 miles of me that stocks it
Surely a 20 mile drive to get some optimax is a good excuse for a 'pointless' drive!
Reply
Old Dec 9, 2004 | 11:31 AM
  #9  
mdjohnso's Avatar
Registered User
 
Joined: Nov 2003
Posts: 1,627
Likes: 0
From: Warwickshire
Default

my ex's S2K was run on nothing but 95 fuel and it was every bit as quick and
reliable as mine which is run on Optimax....
Reply
Old Dec 9, 2004 | 11:39 AM
  #10  
MidnightSun's Avatar
Registered User
 
Joined: May 2004
Posts: 33
Likes: 0
From: Devon / Somerset
Default

How about keeping a can of Octane boost in the boot for when you refill?
Reply



All times are GMT -8. The time now is 10:48 PM.