Power Petrol vs Normal Petrol - Features & Differences

When selecting a vehicle, there are several factors to consider, and the type of fuel is an important one. If you look at fuel stations, you can see that there isn’t only a differentiation between petrol and diesel dispensing units, but also between the different grades of petrol that are available. Some brands choose to term these higher grades as ‘Premium’, ‘Power’, or ‘Speed’. However, they mean the same. As mileage is an important consideration for most vehicle owners, it is also essential to consider the quality of fuel your vehicle requires. But to understand the difference between power fuel and standard fuel, we need to look at a few basics of grading fuel. Petrol contains hydrocarbons such as paraffin, naphthene, and olefins, which are produced through catalytic crackers. While the petroleum extracted from oil rigs contains large hydrocarbon molecules, this catalytic cracker breaks down these large molecules into tiny ones, which then vaporise using a catalyst. At the end of this process, petrol is finally extracted from the crude oil, and additives are added to enhance the quality that avoids carbon deposits in the engine.

What is Power Petrol?

Power petrol is a premium variant of regular petrol that contains advanced additives designed to enhance engine performance and improve fuel efficiency. It is specially formulated to clean the engine's fuel system, reduce carbon deposits, and promote smoother engine operation. Power petrol is marketed by various fuel companies as a higher-performance fuel option. It typically offers higher octane levels, which can help in preventing engine knocking and ensuring smoother acceleration. Regular use of power petrol may improve overall engine health and efficiency, especially in modern vehicles that require higher engine performance.

What is Normal Petrol?

Normal petrol, also known as regular petrol, is the standard type of fuel used in most vehicles. It is typically composed of hydrocarbons derived from crude oil and is available in different octane ratings (usually 87 or 91). Normal petrol is used to power the internal combustion engines of most cars, motorcycles, and other vehicles. It is affordable and suitable for engines that do not require high-performance fuel. While normal petrol may not offer the same benefits as premium fuels like power petrol, it meets the basic needs of typical consumer vehicles and provides reliable engine performance.

What is the Octane Number in Petrol?

Octane is a measure of compression the fuel can handle before its combustion takes place. It is a measure of the quality and the heat-bearing capacity of the petrol. Thus, petrol that has a higher octane will not combust quickly and is ideal for vehicles with higher compression engines. Performance cars and bikes are where it is recommended to use a high-octane fuel. Similarly, diesel is graded using the cetane number based on its combustion capabilities. *

What is the difference between Power or Premium petrol and Normal petrol?

The primary difference between power petrol and standard petrol is the octane rating. Standard petrol has an octane rating of 87, but premium petrol has a rating of 91 or above. This octane number is used to measure the ignition quality of the petrol. Thus, the higher the octane, the lower its chances of engine knocking as the fuel burns. Another difference between the two fuels that is noticed by all is the difference in their price. Since high-octane fuels require more processing by petroleum companies, their price is naturally higher. *

Benefits of the Utilization of Power Petrol

1. Improved Engine Performance: Enhances overall engine efficiency, offering smoother acceleration and quicker response.
2. Cleaner Engine: Helps in reducing carbon deposits and keeps the engine clean for better performance.
3. Better Fuel Economy: Provides improved mileage due to higher energy content and better combustion.
4. Reduced Engine Knocking: Prevents knocking and pinging sounds, especially in high-compression engines, improving engine longevity.
5. Enhanced Engine Longevity: Regular use of power petrol helps maintain engine health and prevents wear and tear caused by carbon buildup.

When to Use Power Fuel?

Power fuel should be considered in the following situations:

1. High-performance Vehicles: For cars with high-compression engines or sports cars that require high-octane fuel to function optimally.
2. Older Vehicles: Vehicles with higher mileage or older engines may benefit from cleaner fuel to reduce carbon build-up and maintain performance.
3. Frequent Long Drives: If you frequently drive long distances or use your vehicle in demanding conditions, power fuel can help improve fuel efficiency and prevent engine knocking.
4. Preventive Maintenance: If you want to maintain your car’s engine health by ensuring better combustion and cleaner engine components.

Which fuel should you use for your car or bike?

Depending on your vehicle’s instruction manual, you should stick to the specific grade of fuel, either normal or power. It must be followed to ensure that your vehicle runs optimally, and to avoid unnecessarily burning a hole in your wallet. Unlike how it is advertised, using a power fuel in a normal fuel-recommended vehicle will not bring any advantage. There will be no power gains or increase in fuel efficiency. Thus, it is best to stick to your manufacturer’s recommendation while deciding which type of fuel to use. *

Does the type of fuel impact the vehicle insurance premium?

Yes, the type of fuel has a direct correlation to the insurance premium for your vehicle. Since the insurance company must underwrite the risk for your car or bike, the type of fuel used determines how powerful the engine is based on its compression ratio. Therefore, a supercar or superbike that requires a high-octane fuel as per the manufacturer’s recommendation will have higher bike/car insurance prices. Similar to the difference between a diesel-based vehicle and a petrol-based vehicle, the fuel grade required for your engine determines the risk that has to be covered by the insurance company impacting the car/bike insurance premium. * * Standard T&C Apply Further, the grade of fuel you use will also determine the cost of repairs, its impact on the environment, and finally its price. Thus, the insurance premiums tend to fluctuate based on the grade and fuel type as one factor. In the event you end up damaging your vehicle’s engine due to a wrong fuel, your vehicle insurance policy is what comes to the rescue. It compensates you not only for the damages, but also lets you be stress-free. Insurance is the subject matter of solicitation. For more details on benefits, exclusions, limitations, terms, and conditions, please read the sales brochure/policy wording carefully before concluding a sale.