Mobil's initial response from their website, which was later removed.
Quote:
We will respond to Valvoline in due time . Meanwhile, ExxonMobil is not
aware of any accurate data that would support Valvoline's superiority claim
versus Mobil 1. The Sequence IVA test , which is referenced in the
Valvoline advertising, and the basis for the brand's claim, is an industry
standard test that measures camshaft wear under low temperature, low speed,
and low load conditions,. This test is used to grade oils on a “pass” or
“fail” basis and is not precise enough for accurate quantitative
comparison. Hence, it is improbable that an oil could achieve a
statistically significant result that is “four times better” than any other
oil, let alone an oil such as Mobil 1 that has been shown to easily pass
the test requirement.
We have always been proud of our technical leadership. Consequently, we
know that the performance of Mobil 1 fully synthetic motor oil meets or
exceeds some of the industry's toughest standards. Mobil 1 conducts
numerous tests to ensure outstanding engine protection and excellent
overall performance. Mobil 1 assesses product performance and protection in
multiple categories, including: piston cleanliness, sludge prevention, oil
consumption, ring sticking, cam wear, cylinder wear and oil thickening. In
an effort to demonstrate it's outstanding performance, Mobil 1 stands up to
the world's toughest industry recognized engine tests and continues to
exceed them all. Mobil 1 5W-30 not only meets the industry standard API and
ILSAC tests, but also the harsh and demanding requirements for advanced
engine oil performance of General Motors and Honda. Mobil 1 5W-30 was the
first motor oil to pass both the GM 4718M and Honda HTO-06 test
requirements. In fact, Mobil 1 5W-30 is factory fill in all Chevrolet
Corvettes and all Honda turbocharged engines. Only Mobil 1 is able to make
this claim.
When it comes to offering overall engine protection, Mobil 1 delivers
proven performance.
