Every person in the market for a car is searching for a product that matches their circumstances. Each detail should be reviewed—from the upholstery all the way down to the engine—to make sure it functions with and compliments the consumer’s life. This includes their commute, their familial responsibilities, social habits, etc. Those deciding between a diesel and gasoline engine should know the differences between the two to ensure they pick the best option to suit their lifestyle.
Great Mileage
Diesel fuel used to be cheaper than gasoline, but as of now, they are around the same price. However, since diesel is one of the most efficient and energy-dense fuels available today, it offers drivers a better bang for their buck than gasoline. People concerned about fuel efficiency should strongly consider diesel engines.
Diesel engines not only deliver better fuel economy than similarly performing gasoline engines, but they also deliver as much or more fuel economy as gasoline-electric hybrids. This is due to the diesel engine’s superior torque and energy. These factors also contribute to the diesel engine’s impressive speed.
Fewer Repairs
One of the advantages of a diesel engine over gasoline is a diesel engine requires fewer repairs. A diesel engine does not need spark plugs or distributors, which are common pieces of maintenance required for traditional internal combustion engines. Avoiding these bothersome visits to the mechanic could save a car owner a tremendous amount of money over the years.
A diesel engine, known for its durability, will experience less wear than a gas engine. Therefore, a car with a diesel engine will typically spend less time in the shop than a gasoline one. Diesel engines can withstand a higher compression than gas-powered vehicles thanks to their main components, making them more efficient the more you drive. Oil changes are also less frequent. Altogether, these features keep diesel engines away from the repair shop (and away from your bank account) more often than gas-powered engines.
They Are Faster From a Standing Start
For all the speed freaks out there, diesel engines offer riders a faster start than gas-powered engines. This is due to its torque. Essentially, diesel engines provide far more torque to the driveshaft, which allows them to go from zero to double digits quicker than a gas car.
Furthermore, the increased torque means diesel cars are better at towing than gasoline cars. This explains why so many diesel-powered vehicles are trucks, SUVs, and other towing machines designed to haul heavy loads.
A Better Resale Value
Diesel cars, admittedly, tend to be more expensive upfront than gasoline cars. But one of the biggest advantages of a diesel engine over gasoline is a diesel car’s resale value is far more attractive. Since diesel engines are more durable, they retain their value much better than gasoline cars.
Shoppers who purchase diesel engine cars may not see the savings immediately. However, with the low cost of upkeep, combined with its superior resale value, they will be sure to save money in the long run. These resale values are also a bonus for people who are leasing. Since a lease basically pays the depreciation on a car, diesel cars may offer a better deal than gas-powered vehicles because their depreciation curve is not steep.
Van Rundell is a writer and author who specializes in transportation, travel, guidance, health & fitness. With over 10 years of experience in the industry as a driver and an entrepreneur, he has seen it all. His tone is professional but friendly with a dash of humor thrown in for good measure. In past, he has been advising, educating and writing about transport for the public and professionals alike.
A qualified fitness instructor with over 5 years’ experience as a personal trainer and group fitness instructor, Van brings his deep knowledge of health and exercise science to his articles on health & fitness.