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If you're driving a petrol-powered car, you're relying on a set of small but mighty components to get moving—spark plugs. These plugs are threaded into the cylinder head of your engine and play a key role in ignition. When high-voltage electricity reaches the plug, it jumps a small gap at the tip, igniting the air-fuel mixture in the engine. That spark? It’s the very thing that brings your engine to life.
Without spark plugs, your car simply won’t start.
Most spark plugs have a copper core, known for its excellent electrical conductivity and fast heat dissipation. But copper on its own is soft and can’t handle high heat, so it’s typically coated in a nickel alloy to increase durability. Depending on the plug type, the tips may also be finished with platinum or iridium to boost performance and lifespan.
The metal used in a spark plug’s electrodes (both centre and side) matters a great deal. These metals conduct the high voltage needed to create that vital spark between the electrodes. Over time, repeated sparks cause wear, so stronger metals like platinum and iridium are used to extend the plug’s lifespan and reduce misfires.
Simply put – better materials mean longer life and more consistent performance.
Copper spark plugs are often the go-to choice due to their low cost and strong performance. While all spark plugs have a copper core, the ones commonly referred to as "copper plugs" use nickel alloy electrodes.
They run cooler and are ideal for high-performance driving, often used in older vehicles or those with turbochargers or higher compression ratios. If you’ve got a pre-1980s car or something a bit more old-school, copper plugs might be your best bet.
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Looking for something that lasts longer? Platinum spark plugs offer better durability thanks to platinum’s hardness and high melting point. These plugs can easily last up to 100,000 miles.
They also run a bit hotter than copper plugs, which helps burn off carbon deposits, keeping the plug cleaner and reducing the risk of fouling.
There are two types:
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Iridium spark plugs are the top of the line – and for good reason. Iridium is much stronger and has an even higher melting point than platinum. These plugs typically feature a fine wire centre electrode that improves ignition efficiency.
They're especially suited for modern engines that demand precise ignition and better fuel economy. And with a lifespan even longer than platinum (up to 25% longer), they’re a smart long-term investment.
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When in doubt, always check your vehicle’s owner’s manual. If your car was built to run on iridium spark plugs, switching to a lower-grade material like copper could negatively affect performance and fuel efficiency.
While below here are some of our top-selling spark plugs:
Your choice of spark plug—copper, platinum, or iridium—can shape how your engine performs. Some offer more power, others last longer, and a few strike the perfect balance for those watching their budget. Picking the right one makes all the difference.
Need help finding the right spark plugs? Browse our selection, check compatibility with your vehicle, or get in touch with us at info@mlperformance.co.uk —we're happy to help!
