Benefit of premium petrol?

I have often seen your endorsement of 97 Octane fuel as worth the extra cost. I have owned from new my loved 2002 Honda Legend. Recently I had the chance to test premium fuel on a long motorway return journey. A full tank of premium one way and a full tank of regular on the return. To my surprise the consumption was identical both ways at 26.5 mpg. Is this what you would expect? (The engine is in good nick using little oil) Are there other reasons to justify using a more expensive fuel?

Asked on 8 September 2015 by Anthony Hanwell

Answered by Honest John
I recommend Shell V-Power Nitro Plus 99 Ron for a number of reasons. Firstly, it keeps the engine fuel system clear of hydrocarbon deposits that can cause damage costing thousands. Secondly, it gives more torque at low rpm and if you use that to shift up earlier then you will be using less revs for the same performance and will enjoy an improvement in fuel economy. Thirdly, all modern engines are certified for mpg and CO2 in the ECDC lab tests on the best fuel available (to give them the best chance). Fourthly, you also get more top end power, typically 10% more, and if you want to use that rather than the increased torque you can enjoy better performance but, of course, by using more revs you won't get better fuel economy.
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