"The
octane rating of gasoline tells you how much the fuel can be compressed before it spontaneously ignites. When gas ignites by compression rather than because of the spark from the spark plug, it causes
knocking in the engine. Knocking can damage an engine, so it is not something you want to have happening. Lower-octane gas (like "regular" 87-octane gasoline) can handle the least amount of compression before igniting..." per:
http://science.howstuffworks.com/gasoline3.htm
"What are octane ratings?
Octane ratings measure a gasoline's ability to resist engine knock, a rattling or pinging sound that results from premature ignition of the compressed fuel-air mixture in one or more cylinders. Most gas stations offer three octane grades: regular (usually 87 octane), mid-grade (usually 89 octane) and premium (usually 92 or 93). The ratings must be posted on bright yellow stickers on each gasoline pump..." per:
http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/conline/pubs/autos/octane.htm
Unless differing areas (countries) have differing definitions for octane I'm going to settle on the above explanations. Now as far as freshness of refined gasoline I'd have to better understand how long it takes for gasoline to be delivered from the refineries. Everyone knows gasolines deteriorates over time. I'm not at all familiar with where the refineries are located in Oz or anywhere in the EU and I'm not so sure about the U.S.; but if the price hikes following Katrina are an indicator, I'm ready to say they are mostly if not solely located on the coasts where tankers deliver the crude (regardless of whatever level of refinement has been undertaken at the source). Certainly possible that Oz 95 octane degrades to 87 in the U.S.? Or rather crap 87 octane at 10-20cent cheaper performs like 95 octane in Oz because it takes so long to truck it. Thanks to the truckers for taking their sweet time

Seriously though, we're in a world of hurt without truckers!!!