Quaker State vs. Penzoil: Are They the Same Inside?

TLDRQuaker State and Penzoil, two iconic motor oil brands, may have the same viscosity and specifications, but they differ in terms of their base oil and additive packages. Penzoil uses GTL base oil, while Quaker State does not. The additive packages also vary, with Quaker State having higher levels of calcium detergent. These differences affect the performance and cleanliness of the oils. Shell, the parent company of both brands, uses its own base oil and additive supply, allowing them to produce distinct products.

Key insights

🔍Quaker State and Penzoil have different base oils and additive packages, which influence their performance and cleanliness.

💯Penzoil uses GTL base oil, resulting in lower additive requirements to meet the GM dexos one gen 3 spec.

🔬Speed Diagnostics conducted FTIR scans to compare the base oils and additive packages of both oils.

📈Quaker State has higher levels of calcium detergent and requires more additives to achieve the same performance as Penzoil.

🏭Shell, the parent company, has its own base oil and additive supply, allowing for control and customization of the products.

Q&A

Why do Quaker State and Penzoil differ in base oil and additive packages?

—Quaker State and Penzoil have different base oils and additive packages to meet specific performance and cleanliness requirements. Penzoil uses GTL base oil, while Quaker State does not. The difference in base oil quality influences the amount of additives needed to pass the GM dexos one gen 3 spec.

Does higher additive quantity in Quaker State make it a better oil?

—More additives does not necessarily mean a better oil. Quaker State requires higher quantities of additives to compensate for the difference in base oil quality compared to Penzoil. The performance and cleanliness of an oil depend on various factors, and the GTL base oil in Penzoil allows it to meet the required specifications with less additive.

Are Quaker State and Penzoil products sponsored?

—No, neither Quaker State, Penzoil, nor any other brand sponsors this channel. The selection of products for these videos is based on curiosity and the ability to analyze the differences between brands. The main focus is on the science of motor oil, not brand sponsorship.

Are there plans to test other brands of motor oil?

—Yes, there are plans to test other brands of motor oil in the future. The videos aim to provide scientific insights and educate viewers about different oils and their performance. While the current focus has been on Shell products, future videos will cover a wide range of brands to provide a comprehensive analysis.

What makes the analysis of motor oil on this channel different?

—The analysis on this channel prioritizes science over speculation. The goal is to provide accurate information based on chemistry and facts. The host chooses specific brands to showcase their understanding of the science and chemistry involved. The focus is on educating viewers and dispelling misconceptions about motor oil.