Last oil change I put in Royal Purple. This go around I've got basic Castrol Syntec. I can't say I noticed a huge HP difference as claimed, but then again I can't say I was necessarily looking for it. Just thought I'd try it out.

So, I'm at "Inspecion I" after 15k and essentially wanted folks opinion on what catastrophic events may occur before I go to task this weekend.

Why the change you ask? RP is $8/qt and 5 qts of Castrol Syntec at Walmart is $23. That's it. No other real reason.

Thanks for your thoughts...

 

It is said that the Castrol Syntec for our MINI's needs to be the "German" European spec. Never found any at wal-mart. Not too sure about the effect of using non-euro Castrol is, but for my piece of mind I'll spend the extra $.
I also recommend OEM oil filters, had some funny things happen with non-OEMs.

 

As long as the oil meets all req'd spec's it shouldn't be a problem.

Walmart should carry Mobil 1 in the 5 qt jugs too.

 

I used Castrol Syntec in my 3000GT for 178,000 miles with no oil problems at all. It seems to be a very good oil so I would not worry to much if I was you.
Ronnie948

 

Castrol tends to run at least 20F hotter than Mobil 1 in my car. Weird.

 

never downgrade, never surrender. No joke tho oil is very important tho so just be sure it meets specs and if ur downgrading make sure u change it appropriately.

 

Pure opinion:

I had been using Castrol Syntec, and had no complaints. I believe it to be very good oil.

This last weekend I changed my oil, and tried Redline 5w30, obviously I did not experience any HP gain, however my engine is noticeably quieter, less valve train chatter.

I certainly wouldn't think twice about using Castrol Syntec again, but I am kinda diggin' the Redline.

*individual results may vary.

 

Thank you all for your replies!

Interesting about the queiter engine noise with Redline. Right now, my inexpensive RF tires (Kuhmo) are so picking loud, I can't hear the engine over the tread noise. In the case of the tires, I will be spending the extra $$ to get a quieter ride next time.

In the case of the oil, at least the $23 investment is not as bad as the tires, and I don't feel as bad changing it out sooner. It meets current API specs.

Agreed about the oil filter, I stick with OEM to aviod any hassles there.

 

The Castrol you want is 0w30 and says made in Germany on the back, it is good stuff. RP is good stuff to, but the 5w30 is an SL whereas the Castrol is an SM. All that really means is the the RP has more Moly in it which helps it keep things like flat tappets lubricated, not an issue in our cars.

 

Dude cheap out on the MINI, stick with the RP or Mobile 1, seen it for $6.00 I use RedLine at $11 a qt. Don't think oil is for HP gains, but for engine longivity. Although, Grassroots Motorsports Magazine dyno tested Redline Oil on a MINI Cooper and found like a 1-2hp increase.

Salinas thats close by, was there at Olive Garden last night.

 

Pep boys stocks Castrol 0w-30w European Formula in my town and often has it own sale.