Engine Oil for 550

[Oscar Berube]

I work in Germany and drive a 550. Shell Helix is available here. Recently I went home (Michigan) and could not find Helix locally. Would another synthertic such as Mobil 1 or Amsoil European 5-40 be acceptable? Thanks for any advice. I will soon be returning and bringing the 550. Oscar

[Jettafanatic]

The Shell Helix Ultra was switched to the Q (which now does not seem to exist on shelves anymore either).
Forum consensus seems to hover around Amsoil / Some swear by Mobil 1 in the same weight, though everyone has a good argument of why they use what they use.
I personally use Royal Purple in the same weight ( call me crazy) and am very happy with it (great temps / pressure / engine noise (or lack thereof) and stability on a Dyno for prolonged times with very good water / oil temps).
There's a gigantic thread by the Dr. on oils... on http://www.ferrarichat.com . I lost myself by page # 40 if you want some great reading...
Lastly, the arguments of "if it works on a jet engine it'll work on your car" and similar claims do not necessarily apply to a normally aspirated V12.....
Cheers