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are you all sure I could use regular gas

Discussion in 'Gen 2 Prius Technical Discussion' started by little foot, Sep 8, 2008.

  1. jcfsusmc

    jcfsusmc New Member

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    Just for further encouragement...

    I always have to test things for myself. Stick with 87!

    Using SPSS for the statistics, I've come up with the following:

    87 octane for six tanks: 53.6 mpg
    89 octane for six tanks: 52.13 mpg
    93 octanne for six tanks: 51.1 mpg

    last four tank of gas; going back to 87 for good: 54.8 mpg!

    All octane "tests" were performed using consecutive tankfulls, no additives. Oil changed, tires rotated during second tank of 89. Tire pressure: 42 front; 40 rear. 650-700 miles a week over hilly rural roads. Average speed: 45-55 mph. 20% city driving.

    Chris
     
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  2. HardCase

    HardCase SilverPineMica, the green one

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    I live in western Montana, but go to the eastern part of the state fairly frequently. Over there most 'regular' gas is 85.5 octane. I use it in my Prius with no ill effects whatsoever.
     
  3. qbee42

    qbee42 My other car is a boat

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    Just as a side note, 85 octane is considered regular at high altitudes. An engine needs less octane at higher altitudes, due to thinner air (assuming normal aspiration).

    Tom
     
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  4. cycledrum

    cycledrum PSOCSOASP

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    Well, the owner's manual does not say use 87 pump octane gasoline only, it says use a minimum of 87, but don't worry at all, 87 should be just fine in your car.

    Higher octane gas is not necessarily better, it just means that it burns a bit slower which is required the higher the compression an engine has.
     
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