Here are dyno results running 87 (recommended) and 93 octane in a 5th gen Camaro SS. As expected, running 93 octane in an engine that requires 87 octane resulted in no increase in horsepower. However, if the timing is adjusted, there is a significant gain. Does 93 Octane Make More Power Than 87? Or Just A Scam?
Advancing timing can provide horsepower gains and that does require higher octane. Most people do not realize that the higher octane fuel is harder to ignite. A car with low compression may have problems burning high octane fuel. This can cause fouling because the products and additives in premium gasoline may not fully burn.
I’ve heard that lower octane gas has more energy content. Anyone know if that’s really true? If so, that means you can get better gas mileage using lower octane gas. (Shocking fact: not everyone is a horsepower junkie - some people just need to get to work and back )
