Premium vs. Regular Gas: What's the Difference?

2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Sedan

 

What’s the difference between premium and regular gas? Price, engine suitability, and octane are the main factors that set these two types of fuel apart. Learn more about how premium vs. regular gas compare, and see what is needed for your car with the team at the Mercedes-Benz of San Antonio service center today!

Premium Gasoline: What is It?

Premium gas is a higher octane gasoline than regular (usually 90 or above.) It’s also usually more expensive and has additives that help prevent engine knocking or pinging, which can damage an engine if it happens during the combustion process.

Regular Gas: What is it? 

Regular gasoline is less expensive and has fewer additives, but provides enough octane for most cars (usually with an octane level of 87 or above.) You should use premium gas only if your owner’s manual recommends it or you have a high-performance engine that requires premium fuel to run properly.

What’s the Difference Between Premium and Regular Gas?

While the two options may seem similar, there are a few factors that set each apart: 

  • Price: Filling up with premium gas can cost you anywhere between 20 to 40 cents more than using regular gas.
  • Octane Rating: The higher the octane level, the less chance there is of engine knocking (also called pre-ignition) which can damage your vehicle.
  • Engine Suitability: Regular unleaded gas burns faster than premium gas, making it better suited for engines that have low compression ratios. On the other hand, engines with high compression ratios will benefit from premium gasoline. 

What’s the Best Gas for Mercedes-Benz?

For many cars, premium gasoline is not necessary. However, with a precision-tuned Mercedes-Benz, the gas type recommended is premium unleaded fuel. This type of fuel will best work with the performance-focused features of your Mercedes-Benz model. 

Contact Mercedes-Benz of San Antonio To Find Out More About Your Vehicle’s

If you have more questions about premium vs. regular gas, or you’re looking for more car care tips, the Mercedes-Benz of San Antonio service center is here for you! Our knowledgeable team is here to help keep your car running at its best on the streets of Shavano Park and Alamo Heights.

More from Mercedes-Benz of San Antonio

  • Luxury, Performance, and Technology Compared: Mercedes GLE vs BMW X5

    The Mercedes GLE vs BMW X5 comparison comes down to what kind of luxury SUV experience you prefer. The GLE emphasizes comfort, cabin refinement, intuitive technology, and available three-row flexibility. The X5 places more weight on sharp handling, stronger standard acceleration, and a driver-focused cockpit. Both are premium midsize SUVs with broad powertrain lineups, upscale…

  • What Does AMG® Mean on Mercedes-Benz Vehicles?

    If you’ve spotted an AMG® badge on a Mercedes-Benz and wondered what it actually stands for, you’re not alone. The AMG® moniker is one of the most recognized names in performance cars, but its roots go back to a small engineering shop in Germany with a very specific obsession: making Mercedes-Benz engines faster.   AMG®…

  • What is the Most Reliable Mercedes SUV For San Antonio Drivers?

    Picking out a luxury vehicle is a big decision for anyone living in the Texas Hill Country. You need something that can handle the intense South Texas heat without any issues. Local drivers also have to deal with heavy traffic on I-10 and long commutes from Stone Oak to Downtown every day. To a San…

Mercedes-Benz of San Antonio 29.5277566, -98.4980664.