I wouldn't say shell is shit. His saying fuel is crap probably meant it wanted to knock easy. Could be high intake temp from no intercooler. I think 98 is pretty much same but occasionally you get a bad batch
Matt used to be on here ages ago. I met him back 6-7 years ago at Rac racetrack. I heard he now runs a luxury racecar business. Ferrari and Lamborghini joyrides etc