Every time someone posts a question about octane, a war of wits ensues (and
typically, the combatants are unarmed).
The engine will not be damaged by using 87 octane. I drive a 2004 LS430 (my
5th LS400-series car), and it does not mind 87 octane fuel. Maybe I'm a
"schmuck" for using regular, but seeing as it makes absolutely NO DIFFERENCE
to the car, the driver, or anyone else on the face of the planet, I figure
I'll use the extra money to get a high grade Starbucks.
A few more points ...
The performance will be reduced by an amount so small, that I defy anyone
under normal driving conditions, without a dynamometer connected to the car,
to tell the difference. My car still kicks most cars butts on the highway,
on the streets, and anywhere else they care to challenge. Believe me, 290
horses, or 285 horses really don't make a hill of beans of difference.
You will save approximate 20 cents per gallon or roughly $400 per year if
you drive around 800 miles per week. If the $8/week makes a difference to
you, then buy the regular. If not, buy the premium. It really really
really really doesn't matter.
Your milage will be slightly less if you use regular, but again, so small a
difference that it would surely be overcome by one or two lead foot
jackrabbit stoplight starts, and the 20 cents/gallon more than makes up for
the small difference.
Unless all you're trying to do is create another endless spout of drivel on
octane this, and horsepower that, your question has a simple answer. The
car does NOT need premium, so do what makes you feel good.
Good night Gracie.
Carl
Post by jsdI've never owed a car that required Premium gas. I currently drive a
Lexus ES 300, and it takes regular. I want to step up to a LS430, but
just don't know if it "needs" premium.
I work for a limousine company and our fleet is all Lincoln Town Cars.
All we ever put in them is regular, and they work fine.
Does anyone use regular in their LS430.
Just wondering before I buy.