How Do I Choose Between Super 98 and Special 95 Petrol?

Introduction

Imagine this: You’re at a petrol station in the UAE, and the pump offers you a choice—Super 98 or Special 95. You pause, unsure whether the higher number is worth the extra cost or if your car even needs it. Many drivers face this dilemma, but choosing the right fuel is crucial for engine performance, efficiency, and longevity.

At AUTOTEK, we believe in helping car owners make informed fuel choices. In this guide, we’ll break down the differences between Super 98 and Special 95, explain how octane ratings affect your engine, and help you determine the right fuel for your car.

Understanding Octane Ratings: Super 98 vs. Special 95

The octane rating measures a fuel’s ability to resist engine knocking, which occurs when fuel ignites prematurely in the combustion chamber. The higher the octane number, the more resistant the fuel is to knocking, making it suitable for high-performance engines.

How Octane Ratings Are Measured Globally

• RON (Research Octane Number) – Used in the UAE, Europe, and most of Asia.
• AKI (Anti-Knock Index) – Used in the USA and Canada (equivalent to a lower RON number).
• MON (Motor Octane Number) – Used less frequently but part of fuel testing.

Regional Fuel Classifications

Super 98 vs. Special 95: Which One Does Your Car Need?

1. Check Your Owner’s Manual

Your car manufacturer specifies the minimum octane rating required. High-performance and turbocharged engines typically require Super 98.

2. Understanding High-Performance vs. Regular Engines

• Super 98 is best for high-compression, turbocharged, or sports engines that require premium fuel.
• Special 95 works well for standard engines found in everyday sedans, SUVs, and economy cars.
• Some luxury and sports car brands require Super 98 only (e.g., BMW M-series, Porsche, Ferrari).

3. What Happens If You Use the Wrong Fuel?

Does Using a Higher Octane Fuel Improve Performance?

The common myth is that higher octane means more power. In reality:

• If your car requires Special 95, using Super 98 won’t increase horsepower.
• If your car requires Super 98, using a lower octane may cause knocking and damage.
• High-performance engines are designed to optimize ignition timing with premium fuel.

How Fuel Affects Engine Longevity and Efficiency

• ✅ Use the recommended fuel – Avoid unnecessary expenses or potential engine issues.
• ✅ If your engine knocks, switch to higher octane – Persistent knocking means you need Super 98.
• ✅ If you accidentally use lower octane once, don’t panic – One-time use won’t cause immediate damage, but avoid making it a habit.
• ✅ Turbocharged and sports cars need Super 98 – Forced induction engines require higher octane to prevent detonation.

Conclusion: Making the Right Fuel Choice

Choosing between Super 98 and Special 95 depends on your car’s engine requirements. Always check your owner’s manual before refueling. If your car is designed for Special 95, upgrading to Super 98 won’t provide extra benefits—but if your car requires Super 98, using lower octane fuel can cause long-term damage.

Next time you’re at the petrol station, you’ll know exactly what fuel to choose!

Need More Help?

If you have any questions or need further assistance, our team at AUTOTEK is here to help! Leave a comment below or contact us directly.