With the rising cost of gasoline, drivers are increasingly seeking more economical ways to fuel their vehicles. One alternative gaining traction is E85 fuel. But what exactly is E85, and how does it compare to the regular 87 octane gasoline most cars use? This article will break down the differences between E85 Gas Vs 87 octane, helping you understand which fuel might be the right choice for your vehicle.
E85 is an alternative fuel that blends gasoline with a high percentage of ethanol – typically up to 85%. Ethanol is a renewable fuel made from plant sources like corn, sugarcane, and grasses. The exact ethanol content in E85 can vary depending on location and seasonal regulations. Regular gasoline, on the other hand, usually refers to 87 octane fuel, the standard choice for most vehicles and contains significantly less or no ethanol.
Can Your Car Run on E85? Knowing Your Vehicle’s Fuel Type
Before considering E85, it’s crucial to determine if your car is compatible. E85 is specifically designed for use in flex fuel vehicles (FFVs). These vehicles have modified fuel systems and engines engineered to handle the higher ethanol content. Using E85 in a non-FFV vehicle can lead to serious engine damage and invalidate your car’s warranty.
Many drivers might unknowingly own an FFV. Here’s how to check if your vehicle is flex fuel compatible:
- Check the Fuel Cap: Look for a yellow gas cap or a yellow ring around capless fuel fillers. This is often an indicator of an FFV.
- Inspect for Exterior Badges: FFVs may have badges or labels on the exterior, often near the fuel door, clearly stating “E85,” “FFV,” or “Flex Fuel.”
- Consult Your Owner’s Manual: Your vehicle’s owner’s manual will explicitly mention if it is capable of using E85 fuel.
- Use Online Resources: The U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) fuel economy site provides a tool to check vehicle compatibility.
Alt text: Yellow gas cap on a flex fuel vehicle, a visual cue indicating E85 compatibility.
FFVs are versatile, capable of running on either E85 or regular gasoline (like 87 octane). However, it is imperative to never use E85 in vehicles not designated as flex fuel.
While the number of E85 stations is growing, availability can be geographically limited. The DOE’s AFDC fuel locator, available as a mobile app and website, can assist in locating nearby E85 stations.
E85 Fuel Advantages Compared to 87 Octane
E85 offers several potential benefits when compared to standard 87 octane gasoline, primarily for FFV owners:
- Enhanced Engine Performance: E85 boasts a higher octane rating (around 105) compared to 87 octane gasoline. This higher octane can lead to increased engine torque and horsepower in FFVs designed to take advantage of it.
- Cleaner Burning Fuel: Ethanol burns cleaner than gasoline, resulting in reduced carbon emissions and potentially contributing to cleaner air quality. E85 combustion leaves less engine residue compared to gasoline.
- Knock Resistance: The combination of E85’s high octane and cooling properties provides superior resistance to engine knocking compared to 87 octane gasoline. This is particularly beneficial in high-performance engines or under heavy load conditions.
- Reduced Greenhouse Gas Emissions: As ethanol is derived from renewable sources, E85 can contribute to lower greenhouse gas emissions over its lifecycle compared to traditional gasoline.
- Supports Domestic Energy Independence: By utilizing ethanol, E85 reduces reliance on petroleum and foreign oil sources, bolstering domestic energy production.
Alt text: E85 fuel pump with a clear label indicating the fuel type and ethanol content, highlighting its availability at specific stations.
E85 Fuel Disadvantages Compared to 87 Octane
Despite the advantages, there are also downsides to consider when comparing E85 gas vs 87 octane:
- Lower Fuel Economy (MPG): Ethanol contains less energy per volume than gasoline. Consequently, FFVs typically experience a 15%-27% reduction in miles per gallon (MPG) when running on E85 compared to 87 octane gasoline. This MPG difference varies based on the vehicle and driving habits.
- Fuel Availability: While E85 availability is increasing, it’s still less widespread than 87 octane gasoline, which is available at virtually every gas station. Finding E85 might require more planning, especially in certain regions.
- Cold Weather Starting Issues: In very cold climates, high concentrations of ethanol can sometimes cause cold starting problems in engines not specifically designed for it. However, E85 blends are often adjusted seasonally to mitigate this issue.
- Material Compatibility Concerns (Non-FFVs): As previously mentioned, using E85 in vehicles not designed for it can corrode fuel system components and damage engine parts over time due to ethanol’s properties. 87 octane gasoline is formulated for the materials used in standard vehicles.
E85 vs. 87 Octane: Cost Analysis
E85 is often priced lower per gallon than 87 octane gasoline. For example, on June 10th, the national average for E85 was $4.316 per gallon, significantly less than the $4.986 average for regular gasoline. This price difference can make E85 seem like a more budget-friendly option at the pump.
However, the reduced fuel economy of E85 means you’ll need to refuel more often. To accurately compare the cost-effectiveness of E85 vs 87 octane, you need to consider the cost per mile, not just the cost per gallon.
The DOE’s vehicle cost calculator is a valuable tool to estimate potential fuel cost savings (or increases) and greenhouse gas emission reductions when using E85 in an FFV compared to gasoline. By inputting your vehicle information and local fuel prices, you can get a more personalized cost comparison between E85 gas vs 87 octane for your specific driving needs.
Making the Right Fuel Choice: E85 or 87 Octane?
The choice between E85 and 87 octane gasoline depends primarily on your vehicle. If you drive a flex fuel vehicle, E85 presents a potentially cheaper and environmentally friendlier alternative, particularly if the price difference per gallon is substantial enough to offset the MPG reduction. You may also experience slightly enhanced engine performance.
If you do not drive a flex fuel vehicle, using E85 is not an option. Stick to 87 octane gasoline or the fuel type recommended in your owner’s manual to ensure your vehicle’s longevity and performance.
Ultimately, understanding the nuances of E85 gas vs 87 octane, considering your vehicle type, driving habits, and local fuel prices, will empower you to make an informed decision at the pump.
For further reading on FFVs and E85, consult Energy Saver’s Consumer Guide to Ethanol and Flexible Fuel Vehicles.
