Thread: Octane
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Old 09-17-2010, 11:20 PM   #7 (permalink)
cmj
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Honda - '96 Honda Civic EX
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Old Tele man View Post
octane is all about pre-ignition and detonation under load, and not about energy (BTU) content.

Thus, *if* your engine ECU (1) has "knock"-sensor(s) and (2) is programmed to dynamically adjust ignition timing, it is possible for the engine to "re-adjust" itself to "use" higher octane-rated fuel, meaning better power and response, but seldom better fuel economy if the BTU content is the same.

Octane is for race cars. It allows for cooler combustion allowing more timing. The only benefit I see is the ability to add more timing, thus giving you a grunt more torque. I don't believe the gains in torque will help your FE enough to justify the higher price tag.
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