Hi I have a mustang and I like to put shells V power premium gas in it, because it feels like it is faster or has a better jump. I head that premium does not make your car faster. Also the hand book says it’s rated for regular gas. Will putting premium in there hurt the motor at all?
fodaddy19
Depends on the Mustang. For the 2011+ Mustang GT's with the coyote, they will run fine on 87 octane, but only achieve the advertised HP and fuel economy on premium.
For the Ecoboost Mustang, there's about 20-30 HP swing between 87 octane and 93 octane.
For the V6 Mustang, there is no benefit to using premium.
For the S197 Mustang GT, for 05-09 model years, there is no benefit. For the 2010 model year (last year for the 3 valve, and the only year the S197 Mustang GT got the previous Bullitt's (08-09)'s engine refinements (different tune and an improved air intake). Then there is benefit to using premium, but the car will run on 87 octane fine.
For the New Edge Mustang GT, there is no real benefit to running premium
thebax2006
Using higher octane gasoline in a motor that doesn't require high octane gas is a waste of money. The octane number represents that more inhibitors are added to the gas to stop pre-ignition caused by heat and compression. Low octane gasoline burns better then high octane gas.
Anonymous
Those who answer that it will make zero difference are basing their opinion on obsolete technology . . . pre-computer ignition & fuel systems led to detonation (knocking, pinging) on too low-octane with a higher compression engine. Now computers allow engines with 10 or 11 to 1 compression ratios to run on 87 octane, because the computer will adjust timing and mixture to avoid those problems . . . but, of course, the engine isn't realizing its full potential. It stands to reason that a higher-performance engine will also adjust when running on higher octane.
I had a Chrysler 300 and the Owners Manual actual stated the maximum horsepower developed on 87 octane, 89 and 92. Yes, it ran fine on 87 but was noticeably more powerful on 92.
There's no point in using 92 octane in a Kia Soul or such . . . but there will be improvement in a V8 Mustang or Camaro. You'll note that some hi-perf cars like a Jag require premium . . . . while a econobox with exactly the same compression ratio will call for only low octane. Likewise, a miserable little Smart car with a tiny engine requires premium because they need to generate as much power as possible.
Other "experts" will disagree . . . . I go with my actual experience. It certainly won't hurt your car to try a tankful or two and see if there's a difference. You won't notice any difference puttering around town or driving at a steady 65 on the highway . . . . the difference would be most noticeable when driving in a mountainous area or when you really put your foot to the floor !
jimanddottaylor
The improved performance is all in your mind. But premium gas won't hurt anything either....except your wallet
oil field trash
It won't hurt the engine. It will only hurt your pocketbook. The various octane blends are designed to prevent pre-ignition of the engine and nothing more. Different engines have different compression ratios and that is the basic need for the various octane blends.