....Yes, but the oil companies also compete with each other (don't they?) and such advertised additional features gain market share.
You've hit the nail on the head - those companies with the largest advertising budget will achieve the greatest sales. It has nothing to do with weather the actual product is better than that of their competators. This explains why more Ford Moandeos are sold compared to Audi A4s - it really is a "no brainer" which is the better car, yet it sell less!
I buy Shell out of family loyalty because a now deceased relative of mine was a senior in the company and because I believe what I'm told about V-Power being particularly good for my car.
But they all say they are "good for your car", weather they be BP Ultimate, Total Excillium, Esso whatever its called, Tesco 99, or Shell V-Power. However, only independent tests will actually prove which one is the best.
Another thing, if Shell V-Power is "better" than the rest, then why doesn't every Forumla 1 team, or every MotoGP team, or every rally team use it? It really is very simple, all the major fuel/oil companies employ highly qualified experts, and if they develop a fuel which is rated to 99 RON, then that fuel will perfom in accordance laid down by the appropriate specification. It is no different to say 504.00 speced oils, irrespective of the manufacturer!
