Engine oil RED LINE or OEM BMW

Redline appears to be more interested in using the best additive package to make the best oil, not having to use pre-tested additive packages that may be geared more toward fuel economy.

The zinc and phosphorus levels (ZDDP) is much higher in the redline. Iron per 1000 miles is much better. Viscosity retention and flashpoint are much better also.

I love red line, search for my UOAs... i've tried most of the top teir vw502 approved oils in the FSI (Motul xcess, motul specific, total energy), and they don't even come close to touching red line with regards to longevity / performance.

4 qts Redline 5w40, 1 qt Redline w40 Race Redline blows away the competition... Lumps of ZDDP and Moly with the Race oil mix, fuel dilution pretty much disappeared, and viscosity/flashpoint are well within reason.

I would stick with a tested oil like Red Line 5w-40 or GC, but that's me.

Sticking with a single weight is a better idea than mixology IMO..

I have been running redline 5W40 since 5k miles in my 08 GTI and I noticed an immediate improvement in turbo spool up. Others have noticed this improvement on other turbo cars as well.

I am planning on using redline 5W40 which is not on the vw approved list but has an awesome HTHS viscosity and I have used it in my boxster S with big improvements over M10w40.

Based on extensive testing, BMW has approved only certain engine oils. Use only approved "BMW High Performance Synthetic Oil." If you are unable to obtain "BMW High Performance Synthetic Oil," you can add small amounts of synthetic oil in between oil changes.

I've been running Redline or Royal Purple 40wt