M1-102 is the older filter that is rated for 15,000 miles. the M1-102a is the newer one that they released when they released the 20,000 mile annual protection oils. Basically same filter, but the latter is suppose to be good for 20,000 mile. I have been using the m1-102a filters because I cant find the M1-102 filters locally anymore.
Im willing to spend the extra for the name brand because many of these store brands basically have different oil suppliers bid on the contract and frequently change suppliers. Mobil one is mobil one. Supertech may be pennzoil, valvoline, mobil one, or some other supplier. To me its worth it to have something that I know is consistently similar to the last batch.
Awesome thank you.