Still sold on 90

MONTHS after Petrojam urged motorists to stop paying for higher-octane petrol their vehicles may not need, some taxi operators remain convinced that 90 is cleaner, gives more power, or lasts longer in the tank.

Drivers who depend on their cars to earn a living may see the extra cost as money well spent if they believe it protects the engine or takes them further. But Petrojam says those using 90 in vehicles designed for 87 are generally spending more without getting those benefits.

“The general view is that 90 is cleaner. The 87 kinda dirtier and heavier than the 90. That’s why most people use the 90, because they feel it cleaner. But the 87 burns better to me,” said one operator who gave his name as David during a Jamaica Observer vox pop.