What are the different gasoline grades and what do they mean?

Answer by  Amber40 (24961)

Grade typical refers to the octane rating of each fuel. For instance "regular" is usually 85-88 octane where as "premium" can be 90 octane or higher. Mid grade can be anywhere from 88 to 90 octane. The only reasons there is different grades is because certain high-performance engines require high octane fuel to run efficiently.

Answer by  Azoodica (286)

Gasoline is rated on their octane. The octane which is usually described as 85, 88, and 90. The higher the number, the higher the octane which means the temperature in which that it burns in cooler the higher the number which allows the gasoline to burn at higher temperatures, resulting in a cleaner, more efficient burn.

Answer by  Matt123 (75)

Most places sell 87 (regular) 89 (plus) and 92 (premium). the higher the octane the harder it is to ignite the fuel. Most cars run 87 and running higher octane is no benefit. Only high compression cars such as turbocharged cars or cars that "ping" under a load need it.

Answer by  Amber40 (24961)

Well the main difference between "grades" is their octane rating. The higher the grade the better the octane rating. This fuel will burn better and cleaner than a lower grade. Some companies also add certain things to higher grades to increase their cleaning powers.