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Key differences between 95 and 98 petrol
We already know there are four types of fuel — and here, we're focusing exclusively on petrol. The crux of the matter lies in the octane rating. This "magic number" reflects petrol's ability to resist auto-ignition (that annoying knocking sound) when compressed inside the engine cylinder. The higher the octane rating, the greater the resistance.
Engine performance: 95 vs. 98 petrol
98 petrol, with its higher octane rating, was developed for high-compression engines — the kind typically found in sports cars or high-end vehicles. These engines need a more resistant fuel to perform at their best and avoid damage. 95 petrol, on the other hand, is the right choice for most standard vehicles.
Price differences between 95 and 98 petrol
98 petrol tends to cost more than 95, largely due to its more complex production process.
Emissions and efficiency: 95 or 98?
When it comes to emissions, the difference between the two is minimal — both comply with current regulations. Efficiency, however, is a different story. Using 98 in an engine designed for 95 won't give your car any superpowers; it'll just drain your wallet faster. And using 95 in an engine that calls for 98 can reduce performance and increase fuel consumption.
When should you use 95 or 98 petrol?
The answer is in your owner's manual. The manufacturer knows what's best for your car and will specify the ideal octane rating. If it says 95, you don't need 98. If it says 98, using 95 could affect performance and engine longevity.
Using the wrong fuel can cost you in the long run. Running a 98-rated engine on 95 can lead to deposits building up, reduced performance and, ultimately, costly repairs.
Pros and cons of 95 and 98 petrol
Advantages of 95 petrol
- Easier on the wallet.
- Suitable for the vast majority of vehicles.
- Widely available at any service station.
Disadvantages of 95 petrol
- Slightly lower performance in high-compression engines.
- May not be the most efficient option for certain vehicles.
Advantages of 98 petrol
- Superior performance in high-compression engines.
- Potentially extends engine life in high-end vehicles.
Disadvantages of 98 petrol
- Higher cost per litre.
- Offers no benefit in engines not designed for it.
- Unnecessary for most drivers.
New labelling for 95 and 98 petrol
To avoid confusion — especially when travelling across Europe — the European Union has standardised fuel labelling. The label is essentially a visual tool to help drivers select the right fuel for their vehicle. Always make sure the label on the pump matches the label on your car. Here's how to read them:
- Circle for petrol: A circular symbol is used to indicate the ethanol content in petrol, shown as "Exx" — where "E" stands for ethanol and "xx" is the maximum recommended percentage. For example, "E5" (5% ethanol) corresponds to 95 petrol, and "E10" (10% ethanol) corresponds to 98 petrol.
- Square for diesel: A square symbol indicates the biodiesel content, shown as "Bxx" — where "B" stands for biodiesel and "xx" is the maximum permitted percentage, such as "B7" (7% biodiesel) or "B10" (10% biodiesel).
- Square for "XTL": This refers to paraffinic diesel — a fuel obtained through synthesis or hydrotreatment, regulated under Standard EN 15940. It may contain up to 7% fatty acid methyl esters (FAME).
- Diamond for gaseous fuels: This symbol is used for options such as hydrogen (H2), Compressed Natural Gas (CNG), Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) or Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG).
This labelling system is valid across all 28 EU member states, as well as Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, North Macedonia, Serbia, Switzerland and Turkey.
Find out more
For further details on the new fuel labelling system for road vehicles, you can consult the informational document published by the Spanish Ministry of Industry and Tourism: https://industria.gob.es/es-es/Novedades/Documents/etiquetado-carburantes-vehiculos/Informacion-para-operadores.pdf
