Klotz vs AMSOIL: Who makes the best racing oil?

When it comes to high-performance racing lubricants, AMSOIL and Klotz stand out as two highly respected brands with dedicated followings. Both companies have carved unique niches in the synthetic lubricant industry, with passionate users advocating for their preferred brand across forums, race tracks, and powersports applications.

Choosing the right oil for your specific application isn't just about brand loyalty—it's about understanding the technical differences, performance characteristics, and value proposition each company offers. Whether you're maintaining a daily driver, pushing a race vehicle to its limits, or looking after powersports equipment, the lubricant you choose directly impacts performance, longevity, and reliability.

As an AMSOIL Regency Platinum 12-Star Direct Jobber with a career background as a Ford Motor Company Truck/Automotive Engineer, I bring a unique perspective to this comparison. My experience working with numerous Ford Special Vehicle Operations programs and Roush Racing gives me firsthand insight into what makes a superior lubricant. And, outside of work, I have a lot of experience with automotive applications and heavy equipment—from dirt bikes and snowmobiles to high-performance vehicles and excavators.

Company Backgrounds

AMSOIL: The First in Synthetics

AMSOIL was founded by Albert J. Amatuzio in 1969, with headquarters in Superior, Wisconsin. Drawing on his experience as a jet fighter squadron commander, Amatuzio recognized that synthetic lubricants used in jet engines could offer similar benefits in automotive applications. In 1972, AMSOIL introduced the first API-qualified synthetic motor oil for automotive use, revolutionizing the industry.

Today, AMSOIL remains a privately-owned, family-operated company focused exclusively on manufacturing premium synthetic lubricants. Their product line has expanded tremendously over the decades, covering virtually every application imaginable—from passenger cars and heavy-duty trucks to motorcycles, ATVs/UTVs, marine equipment, and industrial applications.

AMSOIL maintains strong partnerships within the automotive and racing communities, including sponsorships with Championship Off-Road, Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, and notable affiliations with racing teams across multiple disciplines. Recently, AMSOIL became the official lubricants provider for Lingenfelter Performance Engineering, underscoring their reputation for excellence in high-performance applications.

Klotz: Racing Specialists

Klotz Synthetic Lubricants was established by John C. Klotz in 1959 and is headquartered in Fort Wayne, Indiana. The company began with a singular focus on racing applications and has maintained that specialized approach for over six decades.

Recognizable by their distinctive red-colored two-stroke oils, Klotz built its reputation on the racetrack. The company remains privately owned and continues to focus predominantly on high-performance racing and powersports applications rather than expanding into broader automotive markets.

Klotz maintains strong ties to motorsports with involvement in motorcycle racing, snowmobile competition, karting, and various other racing disciplines. Their specialization has allowed them to develop highly targeted formulations for specific racing applications, earning them a loyal following among racing enthusiasts.

Key Differences and Similarities

While both companies manufacture premium synthetic lubricants, their business approaches differ significantly. AMSOIL has expanded to serve virtually every lubrication need across multiple industries, operating primarily through a network of independent dealers. This broader market approach allows them to invest heavily in research and development across diverse applications.

Klotz maintains a more focused approach, concentrating primarily on racing and powersports applications. Their distribution network relies more on traditional retail channels and direct sales to racers and performance shops.

Both companies maintain manufacturing facilities in the United States and pride themselves on quality control and specialized formulations. However, AMSOIL's larger scale has allowed for greater product diversification, while Klotz has maintained its reputation as a specialized racing lubricant manufacturer.

Product Line Comparison

AMSOIL: Comprehensive Coverage

AMSOIL offers one of the most comprehensive product lines in the lubricant industry, with specialized formulations for virtually every application:

• Automotive: Multiple tiers of synthetic motor oils (Signature Series, XL, OE), European-specific formulations, high-mileage options, and racing oils
• Diesel: Heavy-duty diesel oils, fleet lubricants, and specialized additives
• Powersports: Motorcycle, dirt bike, ATV/UTV, and snowmobile-specific formulations
• Marine: Complete line of boat and watercraft lubricants
• Industrial: Hydraulic fluids, compressor oils, and industrial lubricants
• Additives: Comprehensive fuel treatment and oil additives
• Filtration: Oil filters, bypass filtration systems, and air filters

AMSOIL's product line extends beyond oils to include greases, coolants, brake fluids, and specialized maintenance products. This comprehensive approach allows them to offer complete lubrication solutions for virtually any application.

Klotz: Racing and Powersports Focus

Klotz maintains a more specialized product line centered on racing and high-performance applications:

• Two-Stroke Oils: Their flagship product category, featuring specialized formulations for different racing disciplines
• Four-Stroke Oils: Performance-focused formulations for racing and high-stress applications
• Racing Oils: Specialized lubricants for various motorsports categories
• Powersports: Products for motorcycles, snowmobiles, and marine applications
• Additives: Fuel treatments and lubricant enhancers for racing applications

While more limited in scope compared to AMSOIL, Klotz's product line offers highly specialized formulations for specific racing applications. Their focus on racing has allowed them to develop products that address the unique challenges faced in competitive motorsports.

Application-Specific Offerings

AMSOIL offers application-specific products across a much broader range of industries and uses. For automotive applications alone, they provide different tiers of motor oil based on performance requirements and price points. Their motorcycle line differentiates between metric and V-twin applications, and their diesel offerings address the needs of various engine manufacturers and emission systems.

Klotz's application-specific offerings are primarily within the racing and powersports categories. They offer different two-stroke oil formulations based on the specific racing application (dirt bike, snowmobile, kart, etc.), with each designed to address the unique stresses of those environments.

Both companies recognize the importance of formulating products for specific applications rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach. However, AMSOIL's broader product line allows them to address more diverse applications, while Klotz maintains deeper specialization within their focused categories.

Technical Comparisons - AMSOIL vs. Klotz

For the technical product comparisons, we'll look at some of the best 2-stroke and 4-stroke motor oils from both Klotz & AMSOIL, focusing primarily on racing and high-performance applications.

AMSOIL DOMINATOR 2-Stroke Racing Oil vs. Klotz R-50 Techniplate

AMSOIL DOMINATOR 2-Stroke Racing Oil and Klotz R-50 Techniplate are both premium racing formulations for high-performance applications. We'll compare technical specifications for these oils first.

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Technical Comparison Analysis

From the specs provided, we can draw several important insights:

1. Viscosity Differences:
   • Klotz R50 has a significantly higher kinematic viscosity at 100°C (18.20 cSt compared to AMSOIL's 7.0 cSt)
   • This indicates Klotz R50 is a much thicker oil at operating temperature, which could provide stronger film strength in high-heat racing applications
2. Pour Point:
   • AMSOIL DOMINATOR has a dramatically lower pour point (-54°C vs -23°C for Klotz)
   • This suggests AMSOIL would flow much better in extremely cold conditions, providing superior cold-weather starting and protection
3. Flash Point:
   • Klotz R50 has a substantially higher flash point (288°C vs 94°C for AMSOIL)
   • This higher flash point may indicate better resistance to breakdown at extreme temperatures
4. Mixing Ratios:
   • Both products are designed for racing applications with similar mix ratios
   • Klotz provides more specific ratio recommendations for different applications (16:1 to 50:1)
   • AMSOIL recommends 50:1 but notes racers often customize their mix ratios
5. Applications:
   • Both oils target similar applications: high-performance two-stroke engines
   • AMSOIL DOMINATOR can be used in oil-injected systems, while Klotz R50 specifies "PRE-MIX ONLY"
   • Both are compatible with various high-performance applications like snowmobiles, motocross, and marine engines

Pricing Comparison - AMSOIL DOMINATOR vs. Klotz R-50

When it comes to pricing, both of these premium 2-stroke racing oils are accompanied with premium costs. Klotz R-50 2-Stroke costs $21.60 per quart, which is priced approximately 25% higher per quart than AMSOIL DOMINATOR at retail, and nearly 60% than DOMINATOR when purchased with the Preferred Customer discount.

Even though Klotz boasts better kinematic viscosity at operating temperatures, for the price, it seems like overkill in my opinion.

AMSOIL DOMINATOR 2-Stroke vs. Klotz - Reviews

The Best Oil Yet
I have used several other racing oils and have had issues with all of them. Maxima Castor 927 came out of solution when the temperatures dropped. Klotz required regular remixing. I started using Dominator after my last piston change. That was 2 years ago. I haven't bought a piston since. It mixes easily. It stays in solution. The red color makes identifying the fuels easy, especially when the tags fall off the cans...
- Aaron F, West Virginia

The customer above suggests that Klotz doesn't pre-mix as well as AMSOIL and has had problems with other 2-stroke oils staying in solution. After 2 years, he hasn't had to replace a piston while using AMSOIL DOMINATOR.

Snowmobile Showdown: Klotz Techniplate 2-Stroke vs. AMSOIL INTERCEPTOR

Klotz and AMSOIL also make snowmobile-specific 2-stroke engine oils. So we'll analyze the technical specifications below:

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Performance Characteristics

1. Cold Weather Performance: AMSOIL products demonstrate superior pour points (-54°C/-65°F for DOMINATOR and -53°C/-63°F for INTERCEPTOR) compared to Klotz (-40°C/-40°F), making them potentially better choices for extreme cold weather operation.
2. Viscosity Properties: All three oils have similar kinematic viscosities at 100°C, with Klotz TechniPlate having a slightly higher value (7.1 cSt) compared to AMSOIL DOMINATOR (7.0 cSt) and INTERCEPTOR (6.5 cSt). Higher viscosity at operating temperature can provide better protection under load.
3. Flash/Fire Points: AMSOIL INTERCEPTOR and Klotz TechniPlate have nearly identical flash points around 102°C (216°F/215°F), while DOMINATOR has a lower flash point at 94°C (201°F). Higher flash points typically indicate better thermal stability.

Specialized Features

1. Rating Systems: Klotz uses a proprietary rating system for smoke, clean burn, and film strength that isn't directly comparable to AMSOIL's specifications, making direct performance comparisons difficult in these areas.
2. Biodegradability: Klotz promotes its 48% biodegradability rating, while AMSOIL doesn't specify biodegradability for either product. This could be important for environmentally-conscious users, particularly those operating in sensitive ecosystems.
3. Certifications: Klotz TechniPlate has the most comprehensive list of certifications, meeting API TC, TC-W, TC-W3, JASO FD, and ISO-EGD specifications. This suggests broad compatibility across multiple engine types and manufacturers.
4. Arctic Performance: AMSOIL INTERCEPTOR specifically highlights its arctic performance with the SAE J1536 Fluidity/Miscibility test passage, making it particularly suited for extreme cold weather snowmobile operation.

4-Stroke Showdown: AMSOIL DOMINATOR vs. Klotz Pure Estorlin

For four-stroke racing applications, AMSOIL DOMINATOR 10W-40 and Klotz Pure Estorlin 10W-40 Racing Oils both represent each company's premium racing technology.

AMSOIL DOMINATOR Racing Oil features a high-zinc (ZDDP) formulation specifically designed to protect high-performance engines under extreme stress. Its formulation prioritizes shear stability and resistance to breakdown under high temperatures and RPMs.

Klotz Pure Estorlin, well-regarded in NASCAR and other racing series, similarly uses high levels of anti-wear additives to protect engines under extreme conditions. Its formulation is designed to maintain viscosity and film strength throughout harsh racing conditions.
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This technical comparison table highlights several key differences and similarities between the two AMSOIL & Klotz 4-stroke racing oils:

1. Viscosity Stability: AMSOIL DOMINATOR has a notably higher viscosity index (174 vs 164), suggesting it may maintain its viscosity better across temperature changes - an important factor in racing applications where engines experience rapid temperature fluctuations.
2. High-Temperature Performance: Both oils show similar kinematic viscosities at operating temperatures, with AMSOIL slightly higher at 100°C (15.8 vs 15.41), while Klotz has a marginally higher viscosity at 40°C (99.45 vs 97.2).
3. Cold Weather Performance: Both have identical pour points (-42°C), meaning they'll flow similarly at extremely cold temperatures. AMSOIL provides additional cold cranking data (CCS), which Klotz doesn't list.
4. Thermal Stability: Klotz's slightly higher flash point (227°C vs 224°C) indicates it might have marginally better resistance to thermal breakdown at extreme temperatures.

Practical Implications

1. Documentation Differences: AMSOIL provides more comprehensive technical data, including wear testing results and high-temperature/high-shear viscosity values. This suggests a focus on technical validation and transparency in performance metrics.
2. Similar Base Technologies: Both employ 100% synthetic formulations with additive packages focused on wear protection, friction reduction, and engine cleanliness.
3. Application Overlap: Both oils target similar high-performance racing applications, though they list them differently. They're designed for engines operating under extreme conditions.
4. Marketing Approach: Klotz emphasizes endorsements (Shane McDowell Racing) and focuses on its additive technology in its documentation, while AMSOIL emphasizes technical performance data and proven testing.

Pricing Comparison - AMSOIL DOMINATOR vs. Klotz Pure Estorlin

Again, with these premium racing oils comes some high prices. You'll pay $18.25 per quart for Klotz Pure Estorlin Racing Oil 10W-40. At retail, AMSOIL DOMINATOR 10W-40 is comparable, but with the PC discount, you'll pay approximately 24% less for AMSOIL than for Klotz.

In my opinion, these are both premium racing oils with comparable specifications. The choice between them will likely come down to:

Performance Testing & Real-World Results

While no direct head-to-head tests between AMSOIL and Klotz have been published by either manufacturer, we can draw insights from user experiences and indirect comparison testing.

AMSOIL regularly subjects their products to rigorous testing against industry standards and competing products. Their published test results for DOMINATOR Racing Oil show exceptional performance in wear protection, with the Four-Ball Wear Test results demonstrating wear scars significantly smaller than the industry standard.

Similarly, Klotz has built its reputation on real-world performance in racing applications, with numerous racing teams and events using their products successfully in high-stress environments.

Engine builders and professional racers have provided feedback on both brands, with many noting that both companies produce quality products, but with different characteristics that may benefit different applications.

Use Case Recommendations

Based on our technical analysis and real-world feedback, here are specific recommendations for choosing between AMSOIL and Klotz products:

When to Choose AMSOIL Products

1. Cold Weather Applications: For equipment operating in extremely cold environments, AMSOIL's superior pour points provide significant advantages. This is particularly important for snowmobiles and winter equipment where AMSOIL DOMINATOR's -54°C pour point easily outperforms Klotz R50's -23°C rating.
2. Versatile Usage Requirements: If you need products that work across multiple applications or equipment types, AMSOIL's broader product line offers more versatility. For example, AMSOIL DOMINATOR 2-Stroke Racing Oil works in both pre-mix and oil injection systems, while Klotz R50 is limited to pre-mix only.
3. Extended Service Intervals: AMSOIL products are engineered for longer service life, making them ideal for applications where frequent oil changes are impractical or when you're looking to maximize service intervals without compromising protection.
4. Value-Conscious Performance: For those seeking high performance with value considerations, AMSOIL's Preferred Customer program offers significant savings over time, especially when factoring in the company's extended drain intervals.
5. Daily Drivers with Performance Needs: For vehicles that see both daily use and occasional high-performance demands, AMSOIL's balance of protection, longevity, and cleanliness makes them an excellent choice.

When Klotz Might Be The Better Option

1. Extreme Heat Racing Applications: For specialized racing applications where extreme heat is the primary concern, Klotz's thicker formulations and exceptionally high flash points (288°C for R-50) may provide advantages.
2. Traditional Racing Heritage: Some racers prefer Klotz's traditional approach to racing oil formulation, particularly in applications where teams have historically used Klotz products with success.
3. Specialized Pre-Mix Racing: For applications requiring very specific mix ratios like kart racing (16:1 to 20:1), Klotz provides targeted recommendations that align with racing traditions in these categories.
4. Castor-Based Requirements: Klotz offers several castor-based products, which some racers prefer for specific applications where these traditional formulations have proven effective.

Application-Specific Recommendations: Klotz vs. AMSOIL

For Snowmobiles: AMSOIL DOMINATOR or INTERCEPTOR are clear winners here, with vastly superior cold-flow properties (-54°C pour point) compared to Klotz R50 (-23°C). The ability to flow and protect in extreme cold is critical for these applications.

For Motocross and Dirt Bikes: Both brands offer excellent protection. AMSOIL offers more versatility with oils that work in both injector and pre-mix applications, while Klotz offers application-specific mix ratios. For 4-stroke dirt bikes, AMSOIL's dedicated Synthetic Dirt Bike Oil provides excellent clutch performance and engine protection.

For Kart Racing: Klotz has traditionally been strong in this category with specific mix ratio recommendations (16:1 to 20:1). However, AMSOIL DOMINATOR provides excellent protection while allowing racers to customize their mix ratios based on specific needs.

For Marine Applications: Both brands offer specialized marine products. AMSOIL's HP Marine provides excellent protection for both recreational and performance marine applications, while Klotz offers pre-mix recommendations specific to marine use (40:1 to 50:1).

For Street Motorcycles: AMSOIL's broader product line includes specialized oils for both metric and V-twin applications, making them the more versatile choice for street motorcycle use.

Conclusion

Both AMSOIL and Klotz have earned their reputations as premium lubricant manufacturers, though they approach the market with different philosophies and strengths.

AMSOIL offers a comprehensive product line that covers virtually every application with a focus on extended drain intervals, excellent cold-flow properties, and balanced protection across diverse operating conditions. Their broader approach, combined with their Preferred Customer program, often provides better overall value for consumers looking for performance without compromise.

Klotz maintains its position as a racing specialist with highly targeted formulations for specific racing applications. Their thicker oils and high temperature stability suit certain extreme racing environments, though often at a premium price point and with more limited application versatility.

The choice between these brands ultimately depends on your specific equipment, operating conditions, and performance requirements. For cold-weather operation, versatility across applications, and value-conscious performance, AMSOIL products generally offer advantages. For specialized racing applications with extreme heat concerns, Klotz products maintain a strong reputation.

As someone who has worked with lubricants throughout my career as both an engineer and AMSOIL Dealer, I've seen firsthand how the right oil can make a significant difference in equipment performance and longevity. I recommend considering your specific needs carefully and choosing products that align with your operating conditions and performance requirements.

Ready to Experience AMSOIL Performance?

If you're looking to maximize the performance and longevity of your engines and equipment, I invite you to try AMSOIL products and see the difference for yourself.

Become an AMSOIL Preferred Customer and save up to 25% on all products, plus enjoy free shipping on orders over $100 and many other benefits. With membership starting at just $10, the savings on your first order often cover this minimal investment.

Need personalized recommendations? As an AMSOIL Regency Platinum 12-Star Direct Jobber with extensive engineering experience, I'm available to help you choose the right products for your specific applications. Contact me directly with your questions.

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Choose AMSOIL for performance without compromise, and join the millions of satisfied customers who trust their engines to the first name in synthetic lubrication.

Sources:

• AMSOIL DOMINATOR 2-Stroke Racing Oil Data
• Klotz R50 TechniPlate Data
• AMSOIL INTERCEPTOR 2-Stroke Oil Data
• Klotz Snowmobile TechniPlate 2-Stroke Oil Data
• AMSOIL DOMINATOR 10W-40 Racing Oil Data
• Klotz Pure Estorlin 10W-40 Racing Oil Data

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