Can I use synthetic oils in classic cars?
There has previously been concern about the use of synthetic oils in classic cars. However, with the use of modern technology and improved industry knowledge, there is no longer any need to worry. The Millers Oils Classic Car Range includes engine oils with both mineral and synthetic based blends so that you can make an informed choice.
What defines a classic car?
Although there is no specific time period to determine a classic car, Millers Oils approximates classic vehicles to be from around the 1940’s to the 1980’s/90’s, and modern classic vehicles to be from the 1980’s/90’s. Vehicles prior to this have even more specific needs than classic vehicles and are classed as vintage.
What’s the difference between mineral and synthetic oils?
Oils used to formulate lubricants are called base oils, and include both mineral and synthetic types:
Mineral oil is refined from a fraction of crude oil, using different techniques including solvent washing and chemical reactions to remove impurities, and improve lubrication characteristics.
Synthetic based lubricants, although still derived from crude oil, are manufactured using chemically modified petroleum components or are synthesised from other raw materials, rather than the refining of crude oil. This is a much more controlled process, meaning that the molecules in the oil are more uniform.
Why is there reluctance behind using synthetic oils in classic cars?
In the late 1990s, synthetics were a new and increasingly popular technology. Oil companies began to introduce synthetic blends into their classic oils, but classic car owners started experiencing oil leaks. Classic vehicles had rubber seals designed to be used with mineral oils, so some compatibility issues were discovered. The synthetic oils caused the rubber in the seals to perish and weep, leading to the leaks.
Are synthetic oils safe to use in classic cars today?
After years of research and testing, we are a lot more knowledgeable about synthetic oil technologies and additives. Millers Oils has developed a synthetic product range for classic vehicles that not only eradicates past issues with rubber seal compatibility, but further protects your vehicle with the potential to enhance performance. Millers Oils synthetic based classic engine oils range from Classic Pistoneeze, to Classic Sport and Motorsport Classic High Performance, depending on your application requirements. Classic car owners can now experience the benefits of modern technology with all the charm of driving their classic vehicle.
So what are the benefits of synthetic oils in classic cars?
- Better lubricity for better protection on high stress areas, extending the longevity of vital components.
- Improved viscosity index, meaning better and more consistent performance across a wider temperature range.
- Higher thermal and oxidative resistance, so the oil is less likely to degrade due to high temperature or contamination, meaning fewer deposits and less sludge, as well as extended drain intervals.
- A stronger film thickness leads to a higher level of protection.
- Reduced volatility and evaporation losses, resulting in lower oil consumption.
Which Millers Oils Classic oil suits your vehicle?
Where to use?
Classic Sport 20w50 (semi synthetic) is an upgrade from our Classic Pistoneeze 20w50 mineral oil, with its synthetic properties and a higher level of ZDDP. For use in both classic and classic sport vehicles especially if they are used for longer drives and in more arduous conditions.
What are the benefits of using this product?
• Semi synthetic – ideal step up from a mineral oil.
• Incorporates modern additive technology with period viscometrics to provide the optimum lubrication characteristics.
• Formulated with optimum amounts of ZDDP for ultimate protection.
• Incorporation of high levels of synthetic based fluids provides dramatically increased protection under harsh conditions.
• Reduced oil consumption compared to mineral oil.
Where to use?
For use in both classic and classic sport vehicles that are suffering from low oil pressure.
What are the benefits of using this product?
• Semi synthetic.
• Higher viscosity than the 20w50 grades, this thicker oil boosts oil pressure back up to desired limits.
• Incorporates modern additive technology with period viscometrics to provide the optimum lubrication characteristics.
• Formulated with optimum amounts of ZDDP for ultimate protection.
• Incorporation of high levels of synthetic based fluids provides dramatically increased protection under harsh conditions.
• Reduced oil consumption compared to mineral oil.
Classic Sport High Performance 20w50
Where to use?
If you are using your classic sport vehicle competitively, take part in track days or long drives and touring where vehicle performance, protection and mechanical gains are vital under extreme conditions.
The science behind it…
This product was developed from the success of NANODRIVE technology in our motorsport range. This low friction technology works hand in hand with the chemistry of a conventional oil to reduce the coefficient of friction and has proven itself on the world motorsport stage. A synthetic oil is perfect for competing vehicles needing that extra care as it provides top level protection and a superior oil film thickness.
What are the benefits of using this product?
• Fully synthetic oil.
• Incorporates modern additive technology with period viscometrics to provide the optimum lubrication characteristics.
• Fully compatible with seals.
• A substantial reduction in friction and wear.
• Significant power and torque gains.
• Formulated with optimum amounts of ZDDP for ultimate protection.
• Improved fuel economy.
• Marked reduction in heat generation aiding the cooling effect on the engine.
• Reduced oil consumption compared to semi synthetic or mineral oil.
