higher octane really wont do anything as for internals. torque kills rods. the more boost you cram into the engine, regardless if it resists detonation or not, will increase the torque produced during the process of combustion. the only thing the higher octane may save are the piston crowns and ring lands, because it will infact help resist or avoid detonation. but if you bend or break a rod your in a whole other world of hurt.