Higher octane gas will take higher temperature/pressure before it combusts than lower octane. That's why you need it for forced induction, advanced timing, or high compression; it prevents pre-ignition, which is when the explosion happens before the spark plug fires because of high pressures and temperatures. I can't really see how it would hurt anything to use higher octane gas, and it doesn't make much sense that it would make knocking/pinging worse. It's just a waste of money if you don't need it.
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Strike down the unroadworthy!
2000 GT Atl. Blue: '03 Cobra motor - 465rwhp/473rwtq, T-56 6-speed, full MM TA/PH & tubular K-member suspension, Saleen body, 17" Torq-Thrust II's, M/T ET Street radials, and lots more
'94 Rio Red Cobra: All the bolt-ons, 3.73s
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