E46 320i - Shell V-Power (99 ron) - definite improvement

[the hack]

...although the specs say that the engine runs better on 98ron, I was surprised that I could actually feel the additional urge and torque produced by using Shell V-Power. It's certainly not my imagination, as I've gone from a tank of 95ron to 99ron a few times and each time I have noticed a big improvement with the higher octane fuel.

To be honest, I'm surprised as I wouldn't have expected a lowly 2.2l engine to respond so well.

[Patrick Bateman]

I'd expect this to be a placebo affect more than anything.

[the hack]

Patrick Bateman said:

I'd expect this to be a placebo affect more than anything.

No, I had been expecting that too - but it's a definite, noticeable improvement and I've checked on other E46 forums and other owners have said the same thing - including better fuel consumption!

[roofer]

With the 2.0 i having the window open or closed will probably have the same effect.

[aizvara]

I tried (and still use) BP's equivalent. Didn't notice any extra power really; I fully expected some placebo BHP, but nothing. What I did notice was that the engine ran more smoothly and quietly. Hence continuing to fork out for it.

This is with an E46 325i.

[Romanymagic]

I know the 330's like super unleaded, not only more responsive but the exhaust note is louder and deeper.

[sparks_E39]

The E39 528i likes it too, feels more powerful at lower speeds but it doesn't seem to noticeably improve fuel consumption, so I just stick the normal shell unleaded in and put V power in once in a while. Tesco Momentum is good although the pumps in my local Tesco garage don't fit in my car (Poole, Fleetsbridge)