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In Reply to: Is Octane Higher on the East Coast? (m) posted by JoshT on September 23, 2001 at 18:22:56:
Sunoco sells an Ultra Premium 94 octane (I tried it once -- in the CAR that is -- and didn't notice any increase in performance or mileage over the 93).
What gives?
There can be minor differences in octane based upon the specifications of the particular "boutique" fuel being produced. In this case, "boutique" fuel is an industry term for the wide variety of fuels produced nationwide to match different state and federal emission specifications, depending upon whether or not the area in which the fuel is being sold is a "non-attainment" area in terms of air quality. The "boutique" fuel system is not the government's fault. The industry did not want to make one fuel specification nationwide to meet all applicable standards, as they said that fuel would be cheaper to produce if it is refined to local specs. This may be true, but it leaves us more vulnerable to spot shortages, as happened in parts of Illinois and Indiana not too long ago.
I think that you have already addressed the material aspect of your question. If BMW requires the use of premium fuel in its vehicles, there should not be a material difference between 91 and 93 octane fuel, as you found out from trying the 94 octane stuff. As for myself, my dealer told me, off the record, that I would have no fuel-related problems with carbon buildup in injectors or on intake valves if I used Chevron premium, as they believe that it has the best additive package. Also, I use Chevron's Techron additive if I go out of town in my car, which is pretty rare. Pick a good fuel and stay with it.
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