Actually, the reverse is true based on an energy analysis.  Higher octane
gases are made to burn slowly by using additives, thus for a given volume,
there is less energy. This isn't very noticeable with my Vanagon (I guess
because it gets poor mileage to begin with and has electronic fuel
injection), but on my motorcycle, the difference is between about 59mpg for
93 octane versus 67mpg for regular 87 octane gas.

James Wagner

> -----Original Message-----
> From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com]On Behalf
> Of Joel Walker
> Sent: Friday, February 25, 2000 12:36 AM
> To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
> Subject: Re: While we are onthe topic....
>
>
> > Do we notice a increase in fuel economy when we use higher
> octane fuel?
> > A power increase? Any increase? well besides cost obviously.
> > I use 92 octane 76 fuel consistently, for me it makes a
> difference, the
> engine makes more power, smoother too.