Does anyone know why the Track Pack cars use 5W50 oil and the non Track Pack GT's are recommended to use 5W20? I've been thinking about going with the 5W50 but wondered if anyone had done it and if there were any adverse reactions.

 

My understanding is that a 5W-50 is running at about the same viscosity as a 5W-20 when subjected to the extreme heat of running on a track/racing. The 5W-20 would be too thin under track conditions and not offer the protection you need.


5W-50 won't hurt your car, but you may suffer a slight hit to economy.


Edit: I should have said the 5W-50 on the track is running as thin as 5W-20 during normal driving.

 

It's because the TP cars are equipped with the Boss Oil Cooler and the larger Boss radiator. 5W-50 oil is thicker, and it absorbs more heat from the engine. Also as Spectre mentioned it won't break down as fast as thinner oil which helps in longer track sessions.