Optimax or not?

[mdrc]

What's the consensus on using Optimax or regular unleaded in a 360?? I know this has been a regular topic of discussion by the TVR boys but haven't seen any Ferrari threads on the subject.

[kenyon]

I have always used Optimax in my 349 Spider. I have notice a slightly better response with it. In one of the EVO magazines several months ago. They tested some old and new cars on it and recorded faster times and the engines found to be cleaner. No deposits left on the valves etc. I am a engineer and work as a consultant in the petrolchemical business and Optimax is between 98-99 Octane, this stuff is not a gimick...

[spiderscott]

I always put optimax in my 348 ....thats providing theres a Shell garage within reach of the Ferrari getting thirsty !! ...cant really say ive noticed any difference though

[AJLintern]

I've heard BP Super unleaded is the next best choice if you can't get to a Shell station.

[456mgt]

Not noticed any difference in either the 360 or the 456, but haven't used anything but Optimax despite this because I regard it as the 'best' fuel. There is a noticeable performance gain in the Golf and in the wifes' ML, and in both cases I get more miles between fill-ups. This is especially important in the Merc, which, despite its size has a bloody small tank, piece of crap that it is.

[308gt4]

AJLintern said: I've heard BP Super unleaded is the next best choice if you can't get to a Shell station.

BP are trialling 10% ethanol in their premium unleaded here in Oz and if OK they will start doing it further afield.

The problem with ethanol is that will ruin engines in concentrations greater than 10% unless they have been specially built to cope with the ethanol blend.

We are currently seeing some cars that have been damaged in less than 3,000kms but the govt is determined to press ahead in a bid to thank the supporters of their party who produce ethanol!

For the time being the fuel in the UK from BP is fine but be aware that this could be heading your way and you need to fight it, ethanol is not good for older cars in particular.

Optiax is still the safest bet when loading up the tank.

[ramasys]

I haven't noticed any performance difference between Optimax and Superplus but Optimax definately lasts the longest and the engine on my 550 sounds better. If its a better grade of fuel, its bound to be better for the engine. IMO when you driving a 100K car, its not worth using cheaper grade fuel.

[ninja_eli]

I too use Optimax. I read the same article in Evo. Filled up a couple of times with BP super unleaded and it did not last as long as Optimax, but there could be a plethora of reasons as to why. Its higher than 98 octane and the engine definitely sounds/feels better when on optimax.