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Old 03-10-2009, 07:11 PM   #28 (permalink)
Deezler
Master EcoModder
 
Join Date: Apr 2008
Location: Michigan
Posts: 261

Bio Deezler (sold) - '03 Volkswagen Jetta GLS TDI
90 day: 50.78 mpg (US)

The Beast. - '03 GMC Sierra 2500HD SLT
90 day: 12.86 mpg (US)
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Quote:
Originally Posted by guudasitgets View Post
The ONLY thing a higher octane will allow you to do is run a higher compression at a given density.
EXACTLY. Or more boost, in the case of super/turbo-charging. Same principle.

I would be amazed if anyone could drive around and detect the difference in performance from premium fuel in a carburated, low compression, antique engine like the one under debate. Higher octane fuel only enables higher engine performance. It does NOT create it.

That being said, I completely understand running premium in a higher performance or luxury cars. The ECU can detect knock (if present) and dramatically cut the power by pulling the spark timing. My turbo eclipse used to shut me down all the time, major buzz kill. But then again it probably kept me from blasting holes in the pistons, too. (it was heavily budget modded for performance)
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