While I agree that frequent changes are a good idea, oils do vary. Any name
brand oil that passes minimum API guidelines recommended by manufacturers
should work in a car under normal conditions with routine changes. Synthetic
oils are still derived from petroleum so they are really still dino juice. They
are "synthetic" because the larger chain molecules are synthesized from
smaller starting products (still from a petroleum source). This allows a more
consistent or specific molecular make-up (not just a distillation fraction) and
can provide a more consistent level of performance over a wider temperature
range etc. They can be formulated for very specific windows of performance.
Formula one oils are literally synthesized for specific engines and race
venues! Synthetics have advantages in extreme temperatures (ie cold or heat)
and are a good idea for racing engines that often see extreme temps. Synthetic
greases have the same advantages.
Mike Unger
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