European car formulas

[OilMeBob]

I've seen some vendors selling what they call European car formulas, like 5W40 or maybe 0W40. Just curious, what kinds of cars actually call for this?

A lot of people with my car, the Mazdaspeed 3, are recommending this type of viscocity, it has to do with the turbo. My general understanding is that thinner is actually, in the general case, better for lubrication. But, I guess there are differences in applications.

 

[d00df00d]

European cars.

BMWs, Audis, Porsches, Mercedes....

 

[OilMeBob]

Let me rephrase the question. Why might a BMW or Audi take a different weight oil?

 

[shpankey]

European oils are generally made to compensate for their longer oil change intervals. They are typically better than U.S. oils, imo.

I have a speed 3 as well. I'd recommend a good 40 weight oil. PP 5w40 Euro, Redline 10w40, Rotella T Syn 5w40 are all great choices.

 

[Corvette Owner]

Ferrari uses 10W-60 oil !

 

[Oldwolf]

Here is a related thread.

 

[Audi Junkie]

Higher operating temps from extended hi-speed operation calls for a heavier oil to compensate. Do you have an oil temp gauge? 5w-40 is the heaviest of the bunch, 0w-40 M1 and 0w-30 (Syntec) are thinner for winter but protect as well, even with a thinner formula. These 2 oils are a good place to start for your vehicle. If you have consumption issues, then 5w-40.

 

[Johnny]

Originally Posted By: Corvette Owner
Ferrari uses 10W-60 oil !


I think only the Enzo uses the 10W-60. Notice I said "think".

 

[sprintman]

Hmm long topic. My E46 non-M BWW fer instance requires an
ACEA A3,B3 LL01 oil, an E46 M3 uses 10W60. Oilsw are tailored to specific engines and requirements. Johnny knows a lot more than I do about this, in fact I pale compared to him. cheers..s