The main difference between 93 and 95 petrol is the octane rating, which measures how well the fuel resists pre-ignition, known as knocking. 95 has a higher octane rating than 93; a higher octane number means more resistance to knocking, not more power or better fuel economy on its own. Both grades are sold as unleaded petrol (ULP) and lead replacement petrol (LRP), and both are priced inland and at the coast, though 93 is primarily an inland grade. As an example, effective 1 July 2026, the Gauteng benchmark for 93 is R25.94 and for 95 is R26.10. Always use at least the minimum octane rating your vehicle manufacturer requires.
This guide is part of our South African Fuel Prices hub.
What octane means
Octane rating measures a petrol’s resistance to knocking — uncontrolled combustion that can reduce performance and, over time, harm the engine. A higher octane number means greater resistance to knocking. On its own, a higher octane rating does not add power or improve fuel economy unless the engine is designed to take advantage of it.
Altitude and availability
Engines are generally more prone to knocking at sea level, where the air is denser, than at high altitude. For this reason 93 is widely used in high-altitude inland areas such as Gauteng. Both grades are listed in the official price schedule inland and at the coast — for example, effective 1 July 2026 the coastal benchmark is 2507.00 c/l for 93 and 2523.00 c/l for 95 — but actual product availability can differ by location and filling station.
ULP and LRP
Both grades come as unleaded petrol (ULP) for vehicles designed for unleaded fuel, and lead replacement petrol (LRP) for certain older engines built for leaded fuel. Use the type suited to your vehicle.
Which grade should you use?
Use at least the minimum octane rating your vehicle manufacturer requires, shown in the owner’s manual or near the fuel filler. Using a higher octane than required will not usually harm the engine but may give no benefit, while using a lower octane than required can cause knocking. Do not rely on mixing grades as a mechanical fix.
The price difference (example using prices effective from 1 July 2026)
Effective 1 July 2026, the Gauteng benchmark for 93 unleaded is R25.94 and for 95 unleaded is R26.10, about 16 cents per litre apart. See the full table in our current petrol and diesel prices guide.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between 93 and 95 petrol?
The main difference is the octane rating, which measures how well the fuel resists pre-ignition or knocking. 95 has a higher octane rating than 93. Both are sold as unleaded petrol (ULP) and lead replacement petrol (LRP).
Is 95 better than 93?
Not necessarily. A higher octane rating means more resistance to knocking, not more power or better fuel economy on its own. Use the minimum octane rating your vehicle manufacturer requires.
Can I use 93 instead of 95?
Use at least the minimum octane rating your vehicle manufacturer requires. Many vehicles run well on 93, but if the manufacturer specifies 95, use 95. Do not use a lower octane than specified, and do not rely on mixing grades as a mechanical fix.
What is the price difference between 93 and 95?
As an example, effective 1 July 2026, Gauteng benchmark 93 is R25.94 (2594.00 c/l) and 95 is R26.10 (2610.00 c/l), about 16 cents per litre apart. Prices change monthly and vary by zone.
Official sources
- Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources (DMPR): fuel prices
- DMPR media statement: fuel prices effective 1 July 2026
- Fuels Industry Association of South Africa: current and past fuel prices
Verification and sources
Verification note: This guide was independently fact-checked against official support documentation. Learn more about our Editorial Policy & Financial Review Board and how our corporate finance team ensures accuracy and safety for South African consumers.