VP Racing C16 Fuel

VP Racing C16 is a leaded, non-oxygenated race fuel formulated for high-output drag racing engines. It is designed for turbocharged, supercharged, and nitrous-assisted combinations with compression ratios up to 17:1.

C16 delivers the detonation resistance required by high-cylinder-pressure engine combinations while maintaining consistent fuel chemistry for repeatable tuning. With 0% oxygen content, it provides a stable combustion profile without the additional fuel-calibration changes associated with oxygenated race fuels.

One of VP Racing's most popular blends, C16 has established a long-standing performance standard in drag racing. Its high-octane formulation supports demanding boosted and nitrous applications where a leaded, non-oxygenated fuel is appropriate.

C16 is blue for easy identification in the shop, trailer, and pits. It is available in 5-gallon pails and 54-gallon drums for off-road and competition use where permitted.

Fuel specifications

• Fuel type: Leaded race fuel

• Recommended applications: Turbocharged, supercharged, and nitrous-assisted engines

• Recommended compression ratio: Up to 17:1

• Motor Octane Number: 116

• Research Octane Number: Greater than 120

• (R+M)/2 octane rating: Greater than 118

• Oxygen content: 0%, non-oxygenated

• Specific gravity: 0.7350

• Reid vapor pressure: 2.18 psi

• Stoichiometric air-fuel ratio: 14.70

• Oxidation stability: 1,440+ minutes

• Color: Blue

Recommended applications

• Turbocharged drag racing engines

• Supercharged racing engines

• Nitrous-assisted racing engines

• High-cylinder-pressure competition combinations

• Engines with compression ratios up to 17:1

Frequently asked questions

What is VP C16 fuel?

VP C16 is a leaded, non-oxygenated race fuel designed for turbocharged, supercharged, and nitrous-assisted engines. It is a proven choice for demanding drag racing applications.

What compression ratio can VP C16 support?

VP recommends C16 for racing engines with compression ratios up to 17:1. Fuel selection should also account for boost level, nitrous use, ignition timing, cylinder head design, and the engine builder's recommendations.

Is VP C16 oxygenated?

No. C16 contains 0% oxygen. Its non-oxygenated formulation provides a stable combustion profile and helps simplify tuning compared with oxygenated race fuels.

Is VP C16 leaded?

Yes. C16 is a leaded race fuel. Confirm that leaded fuel is compatible with your engine, fuel system, oxygen sensors, catalytic converter, and applicable racing-class rules before use.

What is the octane rating of VP C16?

VP C16 has a 116 MON, a RON greater than 120, and an (R+M)/2 rating greater than 118.

Can VP C16 be used in turbocharged engines?

Yes. C16 is formulated for turbocharged engines, as well as supercharged and nitrous-assisted applications that require substantial detonation protection.

How is C16 different from C15?

C15 is intended primarily for large, naturally aspirated engines with 14:1 or greater compression, with some smaller nitrous applications. C16 is formulated specifically for higher-cylinder-pressure combinations using turbochargers, superchargers, or nitrous and can support compression ratios up to 17:1.

Why is VP C16 blue?

Blue is VP Racing's dye designation for C16. It helps racers identify the fuel quickly and distinguish it from other VP Racing formulations. The dye does not affect fuel performance.

Is VP C16 street legal?

C16 is a leaded racing fuel intended for off-road and competition use where permitted. Follow all applicable emissions laws, fuel regulations, and racing-series rules.

Specification Sheet: C16
(Typical Values)
Color = Blue
Specific Gravity = 0.7350
MON = 116
RON = >120
(R+M)/2 = >118
Oxygen Content = 0%
Oxidation Stability (min.) = 1440+
Leaded: Yes
RVP = 2.18psi
Distillation
IBP = 193.1°F
10% = 205.9°F
50% = 210.2°F
90% = 226.4°F
FBP = 351.5°F
H:C ratio = 1.97
O:C ratio = 0
Stoichiometric A/F Ratio = 14.70