1980's: Building on the success of Havoline^® Supreme, Texaco introduced Havoline^® Super Premium High Performance SAE 20W-50 motor oil in 1984. This new product was targeted to meet the growing demand for motor oils especially suited to high-output, high-performance engines and high-temperature operating conditions. Havoline^® Super Premium High Performance SAE 20W-50, like the Havoline Racing Oil that protected the 1983 Indy-winning “Texaco Star” race car, contained anti-wear and friction-fighting additives.

Four years later, Texaco began manufacturing the “Superior Grade” oils under the Havoline name that reduced sludge, wear and oxidation. These oils were formulated to meet the new and more stringent API SG service category for motor oil, and stood up to the toughest driving conditions imposed by the race cars sponsored by Texaco Havoline. To introduce the new products, Texaco launched an advertising and sales promotion campaign featuring the popular racing theme, with Davey Allison, driver of the “Havoline Star” Thunderbird, as spokesperson. Distinctive bright gold labels and black rectangular containers with black, gold and red graphics were adopted for the Superior Grade oils.

That same year, Texaco introduced Havoline^® X1 into its European markets, after developing a formulation that met stringent German and continent-wide CCMC standards. The product offered lower volatility and longer life.

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