Bronco: 87 vs 93 Octane Performance Test. Is 93 Really Any Better?

I test the performance difference between 87 and 93 octane gas in my 2021 Ford Bronco.

[@DrXtoph]

You're the best! This is my obligatory comment to enhance your KZbin algorithm performance.

[@gerardpcollins]

Lol! I appreciate it!

[@Ser_Arthur_Dayne]

"and if I want to go fast, I'll just drive my Alfa" lmfao, what a burn at the end. But seriously thank you for this. I recently got a Wildtrak 4-door and have been tempted with Hi-Test but it just cost me $5.07 a gallon for 87 to fill up, $75 bucks , and if it's really not doing anything, there is very little point. Thanks again Sir!

[@gerardpcollins]

I wouldn't recommend 93 after what I found. The extra money would be better spent elsewhere if you want to make your Bronco perform better. Glad you like the video, thanks!

[@alexj5539]

Love the Mexico line at the end haha thanks for putting this study together for us!

[@gerardpcollins]

You're welcome. Thanks for watching!

[@MrJruta]

This was excellent and the only comparison I’ve seen. Thank you

[@gerardpcollins]

Glad you liked it! Thanks for watching.

[@chucktallberg1507]

Hi Gerard, your channel just popped up on my KZbin and I really enjoy it. Keep up the great work!

[@gerardpcollins]

Thanks for watching! Glad you enjoyed it.

[@TugHillGuy]

I haven't taken delivery of my Bronco yet. I'm encouraged by your highway MPG, which is much higher than the EPA rating!

[@TRAVISVANZUIDEN]

Short and simple video, great job!!

[@Rhett.Castillo]

It takes time for the ecu to revert from the low octane performance tables to the premium octane performance tables, unless you disconnect the battery for a few hours or do a KAM reset. After disconnecting the battery or doing a KAM reset with 93 octane in the tank, the ecu will default to the high octane performance tables and give you a better representation vs 87 octane

[@gerardpcollins]

Thanks for the tip. I figured it might not be as simple as just putting some 93 in and getting instant results right off the bat.

[@jlest3036]

@Me La Pelan no, higher octane fuel doesn't burn cleaner. The higher octane only controls detonation at higher compression, which is why most supercharged/turbocharged engines require it. Ford's ecu will retard the timing with lower octane which is why there's a loss in hp.

[@tid418]

In my experience with another Ford model, it attempts to use the high octane ignition advance at every start up, and when it detects knock, retards it for the rest of the time it is running. At the next start up it will do it again. It is a noticeable lag on the first time I use more than about a third of the throttle pedal after it starts, when it is apparently detecting the knocking and backing it off. It only ever does it once and always right after start up.

[@1414jrock]

Cool video with a very interesting result. Most of Fords eco-boost vehicles have different horsepower ratings between premium and regular fuel. I have always wondered if there really was a difference you could feel, and you answered that for me! Great test!

[@jeffk464]

I think the lower the octane the richer the fuel mixture has to be to prevent knock in most turbo engines. My GTI requires 91 but then again I don't get Bronco mpg's. By the way people if you don't have a turbo you will see zero difference between octane and mpg's.

[@hancockev]

I have the sport and when hauling or towing I see a 2-3 mpg difference.

[@Gyppor]

Wow, I was expecting the fuel economy wouldn't justify the extra cost, but I really expected to see a bit of performance increase. From your results there is zero point in putting premium in the 2.3 Bronco given the additional cost! Thank you for making this!

[@adriandelfabbro8875]

Ah screw it I’ll hit 80 😂 fun video and pretty much what I expected.

[@richardspurlocck5165]

Just found your channel. Excellent real world reports. Well done

[@mawage666]

I enjoyed this video. I guess I'll have to see for myself when I get my Bronco this Saturday.

[@paulsumpter9573]

Good job, entertaining with just the right amount of information and humor.

[@DATravel]

Short, quick and straight to the point. Thank you!!

[@oweng.3102]

I dig your style man. Keep up the good work!

[@gerardpcollins]

Thanks!!

[@tiny5500]

Cool beans, cheers! We are looking at a 2dr. We will see this Monday 👍

[@martinferrillo1907]

Very nicely done. Often wondered how true that might be.. we have a 2.3 L bronco with a six speed manual.. we have recently just put in the Ford performance racing ECU performance program. Now it blips on the downshift, which is really cool and definitely has more power.

[@YtRando69]

Same as the Ranger, the ranger makes more on premium. A tune most definitely makes ALOT more power! My Livernois tune really woke up my 21. Either way you have to run premium for a tank so it can adjust for it. Really makes a difference while towing.

[@geneclemetson4779]

I’m glad you went with the two door option. It’s the manly choice!

[@lhurst9550]

It's the short bus option.

[@wewantben]

Very cool video and I loved your commentary!

[@gerardpcollins]

I appreciate that. Thanks for watching!

[@signalaheadoriginaltunes4159]

So, I am not sure if I am a fool, but I have not run a tank under 93 in the truck since I bought it last Decemeber. But I have also changed the oil three times (first at 700 miles, then two more times each @ 2500). I now have 8700 miles total (where the hell did they all come from!?). It is not elitism or snobbery as much as it sounds that way; it is just that I have heard so many horror stories with carbon build up on these direct injection dual turbo engines; this plus the fact that you need to sand/nut blast the valve chambers with a camera when that nasty black carbon sludge bakes to the valves and chambers at 50 thousand. I know, I may be throwing money out the window, but for the exra buck a gallon and for as little as I drive the damn truck afraid to put mile on it, it just seem incorrect to me at the pump to reach for the lower fuel. My hands just go for the 93! The dmn thing is the nicest vehicle and more than likely the last new one I will ever own.

[@IvanDiaz-sr4ce]

First time on this channel, GREAT 👍

[@gerardpcollins]

Thanks for watching!

[@zaphods2ndhead193]

Nice round test. I also have a 2door but I have the 6 cyl so my MPG is worse. 93 doesn't make any sense to me when you factor in the price difference. BTW, nice looking Bronco.

[@jeffreyhall838]

Nice test! And a Great looking Bronco ...Thanks for sharing

[@goinwheelin]

Cool video I liked the ending lol. I put premium in my Bronco not for performance but to help prevent pre ignition which is important in forced induction engines.

[@kimberlydodder8198]

I have the V6 and it absolutely made a difference using the higher octane gas 93. My husband drove it yesterday and said, "I'd forgotten how quick and zippy this Bronco is. I told him I put different gas in it since he drove it last. He really noticed the difference.

[@ianlumpp68]

Forgot to use sport mode on the second run, I'd bet you'd see a little improvement. Nice job though!

[@williammiller6138]

I didn't notice any difference until the next day, and when I put it in sport mode. Once in sport, I really felt the difference. Mine is the 2.3

[@poppyneese1811]

Loved the video!!! Awesome job, my 2.7 Ecoboost F150 was about the same a lil improvement, but not worth the bucks, I did run a tank or two of pure gas, no ethanol and thought it felt a lil stronger, but I didn’t really test the numbers. I’m subscribing and want to say your Alfa might be the prettiest car ever built! Thank You for a totally entertaining video!!!👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

[@gerardpcollins]

Thanks for the support!

[@billyk...]

I ordered my Bronco with a 2.3 LTR as well. 87 Octane for me as well. Thanks !

[@samuelhudsonovermyer6894]

Good content brother, keep it coming !

[@gerardpcollins]

Thanks! Will do!

[@carlosverajr2544]

Thank you so much for making this video!!!

[@gerardpcollins]

You're welcome. Thanks for watching!

[@SandCo]

Interesting results, when using hi-octane, set your car on sports mode when doing 0-60, should take a few ticks off the clock. Maybe even under 8 seconds. Interesting you achieved 25 mph, I still haven’t gotten that.

[@josephtucciarone6878]

Excellent test. Thank you. Please compare premium vs premium & a real "Tune".

[@gerardpcollins]

Great suggestion!

[@kenm4678]

Each vehicle will react differently. One thing it takes some time for the engine to recognize the octane increase and adjust for it. I have a F150 Ecoboost 2.7 and prefer 93 for MPG and power, also monitor boost, spark timing, mass airflow.

[@dystopia8171]

What a beautiful bronco I hope to buy one soon not sure what color either the iconic silver or velocity blue

[@carycmpagna1327]

Great little test

[@jeffkovacs2823]

Running 93 won't make the 300hp 2.3 330hp like the 2.7tt. The pcm/ecm de-tunes itself to run the 87 by sensing knock. So it'll drop the power rating from the 300 to 270-275ish with 87. The 300hp is the rating with 93.

[@gerardpcollins]

Oh ok, thanks for the clarification.

[@100Aces]

So that’s why I run 87 octane and Lucas octane booster in my 7 speed 2.3 !!!

[@nasty3145]

Agreed. And all factory premium fueled vehicles are tuned with 93 octane. In California for example only getting 91. California owners will NOT get advertised HP on premium fueled cars because all tuning at the factory is from 93. And like he stated above. It just pulls timing thus giving you less then advertised HP. The bronco probably had Way better throttle response and low end torque then 87.

[@melvinhunt6976]

Thanks

[@williamlane6374]

Great video on information for the bronco especially with mine averaging 18mph

[@brandonmoore5988]

Always run 93 in a turbo engine . Especially if towing or harsh stop and go driving

[@gerardpcollins]

Thanks for the tip!

[@brandonmoore5988]

@@gerardpcollins cheers! Says it right in the manual

[@EricFortuneJr.]

93 might make sense if you’re towing something, but that’s about it for me. The quality difference is a myth. Some people believe that 93 is a higher quality over 87, but the only difference is in octane so unless it specifically requires premium then I’ll stick to 87. Great review and very informative.

[@fatfairlane]

My ecoboost after the 3rd tank is when you really notice the difference and it is night and day.

[@conanzbarbarian]

Favorite part was the "screw it, lets go to 80" lol i love it

[@adriano9105]

Liked & subbed. Your Bronco looks good.I'll get one too only when they slip in a 5L Coyote manual. If it don't happen, I ain't buyin'. Excellent video though, much appreciated.

[@gerardpcollins]

Glad you liked it. Thanks for the sub!

[@ricksears3330]

That’s a good looking Bronco, my 2Dr Wildtrak is set to be here 4/5. Same color

[@gerardpcollins]

Thanks! The Wildtrak is an awesome spec. You're going to love it!

[@mileshiles1287]

Great test I had a EcoBoost mustang I believe the hp rating from the factory is with 93 not positive though so hp is less with 87. I'm impressed with the 2.3 in the Bronco .

[@22blkgladdy50]

Doesn’t the 93 help with detention also? I feel like I would feel safer with the 93 on engine internals

[@gensolo83]

Great test! I've got the same color as yours on order in Badlands 4 dr with Sasquatch. The 2 dr is more fun to drive, but I think I would soon miss the larger cargo space of the 4 dr.

[@gerardpcollins]

Very true, the 2 doors definitely have limited cargo space unless you fold the back seats down. Hope you get your Badlands soon. You're going to love it. Thanks for watching!

[@christopherwilson7698]

Really enjoyed your video you got a great attitude had to subscribe 😂

[@gerardpcollins]

Glad you enjoyed the video. Thanks for subscribing!

[@carlosguvetis9347]

The MPG test might have been a little bit skewed. You reset your gauge before you reached your speed of 60 with the first test whereas with the second test you were already going 60 when you reset your gauge. Whether your gas mileage was a little high or a little low before you reached 60 in the first test was averaged in with the rest of the test after you reached 60. I don't know if it would have been enough to change the outcome though. Great tests though and I'm glad you did it. You get a like from me.

[@fullspeedfordbronco]

Appreciate the video. Like you, I’m just running 87 in my Bronco. I also tried 93 and didn’t see much of a difference. Also, while I know it’s not a race car. For 0-60 in the Bronco it’s best to launch it in 2nd gear and brake torque up to 2-2.5K rpm. Once you launch in 2nd gear manual mode you can throw it into drive. 1st gear is electronically limits the power so you don’t break anything. Would be curious about your results 😃

[@gerardpcollins]

That's very interesting. I didn't know that. I'll have to give that a try to see how much it improves.

[@melvinhunt6976]

In the 60s regular gas was 96 octane and Ethel (premium) was 100-105 , Everywhere! We need all gas to be at least 93 because of the benefits to our environment and car engine’s! A clean engine is a CLEAN BURNING ENGINE!

[@kellyh4035]

Fords are excellent for running on regular grade fuel. The way the pcm works, if you did the test after running higher octane fuel for a few hundred miles of variable driving conditions you might have seen a little more difference. But your conclusion is 99% correct. I have done the same with my Lincoln with the same power and drive train. Minimal differences

[@dcar7446]

I heard it usually takes your system a couple of fill ups before it learns the fuel rating

[@armond9871]

Wonder if you not bring in sport the 2nd time made any difference

[@mattbrew11]

You have a nice camera demeanor ill sub for that As far as your bronco. Would you buy the 4 cyl again and have you driven the V6? Overrall how happy are you with the bronco? I have a diesel gladiator now and im considering adding a 2 door badlands Sasquatch. Id love to save some weight and coin and since the 2 door isn’t getting the raptor I won’t be the fastest bronco possible anyway

[@gerardpcollins]

I wanted the V6 but my Bronco was a dealer demo vehicle so I had no input in how it was specked out. I haven't driven the V6 but I think the power of the 4 cylinder is ample for most driving situations. Thanks for the sub! 🙂

[@curtisgibson6190]

Awesome video. 😀👍

[@gerardpcollins]

Glad that you liked it. Thanks for watching!

[@AsianPersuation24x7]

In my 2.3 I am fine with 87, if I lived in Cali still and 91 was only 20-30 cents more a gallon sure I would run 91 but out here in Missouri premium is $1-1.2 more a gallon... thats 25-30% more money per tank for a slight bump in power lol not worth it for me now. I am just very thankful that running 87 in the Bronco is even an option! watching for the Bronco content and at the end he whips out a 4C holy shit lol thats cool!

[@tealruby1]

thanks! great video

[@WaddyBronco]

Awesome video dude!

[@gerardpcollins]

Glad you enjoyed it. Thanks for watching!

[@bjbraunlich]

Loved the video.

[@gerardpcollins]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@scottdillon80]

Great content. Thank you!

[@gerardpcollins]

Glad you liked it. Thanks for watching!

[@HamTheBulldog]

That was a fun video! What fuel do you put in your Alfa?

[@gerardpcollins]

I use 93 octane in my Alfa. Thanks for watching!

[@lewisgarland4025]

thanks for the test sir was great to see and yes not worth the 93 octane price

[@LMacNeill]

Yeah, I think I'd drive that Alfa, too, if I wanted to get somewhere quickly. 🙂 My 2019 Ranger has the same 2.3L 4-cylnder engine, and the owner's manual recommends using 93 octane when you're towing, because it increases the torque, and flattens the torque curve while doing so -- things that are important when towing. I've done my own non-scientific "experimentation" with 93 vs. 87, and I can definitely detect a difference, but not enough to daily-drive with 93 octane fuel. The price difference is just too much. But when towing, I always fill up with 93. Seems to do a better job towing with the better fuel.

[@Reecesavage-Alwayswin]

Most rangers need upgraded Injectors because the stock Injectors are so limited

[@bladimirgenoves1080]

Nice video, I have a 2020 Ranger XLT FX4 package with same engine as your Bronco and it seems that my Ranger was tuned from factory to put all horses together, love they way it run. What is set up on your Bronco? Is that a sasquatch package?

[@gerardpcollins]

My bronco is the 4 cylinder version with the Big Bend trim level and sasquatch package.

[@bladimirgenoves1080]

Thanks for the info, when its my time to get one, I'll get same trim level as yours.

[@Ebacherville]

Does the bronco allow higher octain ethanol blends.. aka flex fuel stuff.. With tunes i have seen the 4 cylinder make 500HP on ethanol blends with aftermarket computers.

[@gerardpcollins]

From what I have read it is not recommended.

[@anonymousinternetlady]

Great Video, very informative

[@keyoumarsmobasser476]

Great job, very informative…

[@krave7989]

Always good to see a black man living good 👍🏽

[@bobquattrini1787]

That wrangler 392 does 0-60 in 4.0....Beast

[@DRex45]

Excellent presentation Good Sir

[@BrentDavis-f1v]

Your 93 octane pass wasn't done in Sport mode. I'd be curious if that changes the 93 octane times?

[@marnielarocque9412]

the70s Bronco had maybe 140hp so the new ones need to be realized . the octane needed is dependent on elevation, sea level because of pressure[ more pressure = more oxygen] so lower octane higher altitudes. Engine performance is about air fuel mixtures and getting the right combination helps your engine management systems get maximum results. The computer has less work to do and wil give you best results when you use proper octane for elevation. Just lick fine tuning a radio station, first set to station so you can adjust up or down. Eg: octane to high for high to very high will limit computer efficiency, and if its hot and elevation the oxygen is even thinner.

[@MaverickXJ]

Great video... I've never ran anything besides 93 in mine so no comparison here. lol.

[@jamescaldwell5]

Great video! I’m impressed with your hwy mpg, but it’s probably because you’re doing a very sensible 60mph. I wonder how much it drops going up to 65, 70 or 75mph. I bet you could still get a fairly accurate comparison with a much shorter test loop.

[@fatfairlane]

If you keep running premium the fuel economy goes up almost 3mpg

[@md247]

Great video 👍

[@gerardpcollins]

Glad you enjoyed it. Thanks for watching!

[@syedhussain3810]

I have 2019 Nissan Titan PRO 4X, I always get more mileage with using premium gas more power quicker respond. I figured the extra money I pay for the premium gas is worth it

[@LearningFast]

Measuring 0-60 mph with anything but a dragy or V-Box is pointless. It isn’t remotely close to accurate or consistent the way you are measuring it. Also, try your 30 mile trip several times with the same gas in it each time. I bet you will get about the same variance between each run even with the exact same gas in it. Differences in temperature and traffic will cause more of a difference than the Octane rating will. What does the user manual recommend for Octane rating?

[@gerardpcollins]

You are correct, this test was not scientifically based. I'm pretty sure the performance would improve further under proper test conditions. The user manual recommends 87 octane fuel.

[@hphillips7425]

Good video and good test. I believe I like the 2 door better

[@gerardpcollins]

Thanks for watching!

[@CuttingKerfs]

Didn't use sport mode second time around 🤨

[@frh-freerangehuman]

I got same results in my 2.0 litre bronco sport. Also find throttle response to be a little better. But with 87 octane converting to about 7$ a gallon here in Ontario I’m not even considering switching lol

[@gerardpcollins]

Geez! For $7 a gallon I don't blame you for not converting lol

[@ShersGarage]

Good job on the video! I have a 23 with 2.7. Gas mileage wasn't a goal for this machine.

[@stephtraveler7378]

Great vid!

[@TheBeatenPaths]

Something about 93 gas....it doesn't burn cleaner or hotter or more effeciantly, it only ignites quicker when compressed in the cylinder. So, unless the computer notices that, and adjusts itself, it won't benefit you. Using it will actually mess up the computer. in time.

[@alexs3187]

Higher octane fuel combusts at a higher temperature. It is less volatile than lower octane fuel.

[@Jason_903]

Awesome I’m still waiting on my 2 door eruption green bronco what day did you reserve and what day did you order I reserved day 7 and ordered January of 21 getting really frustrated lol

[@gerardpcollins]

My Bronco was actually a dealer demo vehicle with 1,300 miles already on it, so I had to live with how it was already specked out. That's why it's a four cylinder. I really wanted the V6 but I made the compromise to have the car sooner. Hope you get yours soon. You're going to love it!

[@Jason_903]

Congrats keep the videos coming you do a great job on them I also love the Alfa!

[@calevel]

I new that was Mexico I’ve been in that same road down in Tijuana? No wait Cancun. 😎

[@phillmckrakin2518]

Love your bronco!

[@gerardpcollins]

Thanks! I bought it Super Bowl Sunday and have loved it from day one. Thanks for watching.

[@RE3B00T]

Funny outro clip. 👍🏽

[@EZapar]

Nice test. Thanks.

[@gerardpcollins]

Thanks for watching!

[@brendonmeierotto3072]

didnt have it in sport on that last run with 93.

[@raymondfink9580]

Where I live regular gas is 5 or more.

[@davidcolgan3268]

That 2 door Bronco is kind of sexy!

[@Steelers1359]

I’m actually getting my bronco within the next month finally. I got the base bronco no Sasquatch no nothing kind of want to upgrade it myself and make it my own. Do you have any recommendations on what to start with?

[@gerardpcollins]

Glad to hear that you're finally getting your Bronco. You're going to love it. I would probably start with the 35" tires first if I had a Bronco with your spec. Gives it a great stance right out of the gate.

[@Steelers1359]

@@gerardpcollins what do you recommend I’m really new to this scene coming from a Honda Civic 😂

[@Clarkeisawesome]

I would recommend doing absolutely nothing. the base bronco with the steel wheels will give it a timeless vintage look which will actually make it more badass in my opinion. Save your money and just keep it stock.

[@landoom]

"Screw it let's go to 80!" Subscribed

[@gerardpcollins]

🤣Thanks!!

[@MikeBoscia]

Same. Came here to post the very same thing. Subscribed

[@76broncodriver]

I started out only running 93 in my 2.7 Badlands Sasquatch 2 door for the first few tanks. Eventually switched to 87 and have not noticed any difference in performance but I seem to actually get better fuel economy.

[@camaro92350]

How you doing on Mpg on the 2.7? I got a Wildtrak on Order. I was surprised by his results for the 2.3 4-cylinder!

[@100Aces]

Because as the engine has been broken in I.E. first 1000 miles…the engine “ loosens up” and you will notice better economy / range…

[@christinamuller7817]

You did not run in sport mode on the 93 octane 0-60 run. I would’ve like to have seen that.

[@gerardpcollins]

I ran the 0-60 test for both sport mode and normal mode on 93 octane and normal mode was about a tenth of a second faster for some reason.

[@Yobleak]

How r u averaging 21-22mpg??? I’m averaging 19 mpg and I’m riding on 32’s

[@gerardpcollins]

I use eco mode most of the time and the majority of my driving is on the interstate. I usually don't have to do a lot of stop and go driving.

[@completelyanonymous8683]

doesn't look like you were in sport mode on the 0-80 run on 93 octane