Premium vs. Regular Gas: What’s The Difference?

If you pulled into a Minnetonka-area gas station, you might have noticed the various types of gasoline on sale. You might even ask, “What’s the difference between premium and regular gas?” 

In the following guide, the team at Motorwerks MINI will compare premium vs. regular gas to determine what’s best for your new model. Learn more below and if you have additional questions, contact our service team.

What is Premium Gasoline? 

When comparing the differences between premium and regular gas, you’ll notice that they share several qualities. Both are produced from crude oil and are combustible fluids. Where the two vary is in their octane level. Most premium gas will have an octane level that is 90 or above. Premium gasoline will also help keep your engine clean while driving around St Louis Park, leading to much less pollution.

What is Regular Unleaded Gasoline? 

By contrast, regular unleashed gasoline is the most common gas type, working in numerous vehicles around the Minneapolis area. Being much better for the environment and your health, regular gas’ octane rating, indicating how well it combats inappropriate fuel combustion, is 87.

The Difference Between Premium and Regular Gas

When comparing premium vs. regular gas, they might seem very similar, however, several factors set them apart from one another:

• Octane Rating: The higher your octane level, the less chance you’ll have of “engine knocking,” which can damage your vehicle. Also known as pre-ignition, this occurrence is less common with premium gasoline.
• Engine Suitability: Regular unleashed gas tends to burn faster than premium gas, which makes it more suited for engines with low compression ratios. By contrast, engines with high compression ratios will benefit from premium gasoline.
• Price: Premium gas can be 20 to 40 cents more per gallon than regular gas, which tends to add up with frequent Minnetonka driving.

Before deciding whether premium or regular gas is right for you, keep the following in mind:

• If your MINI doesn’t need premium gas, it won’t boost your vehicle’s performance or longevity. 
• When your vehicle does require premium gas, choosing regular gas won’t harm the engine. However, if you hear knocking when using regular unleashed gas, switch to premium gasoline.
• If your vehicle has turbochargers, you will need to use premium gas.

Contact The Motorwerks MINI Service Center Today!

Now that you know more about what separates premium and regular gas, turn to the service team at Motorwerks MINI. If you need to schedule your next maintenance appointment, check out our rotating service specials to save. You can also turn to our tire center when your vehicle requires tire rotations or upgraded wheels. Schedule service around Golden Valley with Motorwerks MINI!