The Pros And Cons Of A Diesel Engine Versus A Gasoline Engine
Whether you are looking for a commercial truck or every day vehicle, there are pros and cons of obtaining one with a diesel engine.
Let’s get the drawbacks out of the way.
Engine noise: Yes diesel engines are ‘louder’ than gasoline engines but the modern diesel engines in today’s automobiles and trucks are a lot quieter than the engines from 15 or 20 years ago. In fact today’s modern diesel engine runs almost as quietly as a gasoline engine.
Emissions: You don’t want to put out a ton of black soot and pollution everywhere you drive. Diesel engines are not ‘low emission’ or ‘green’ and they do put out more particulate matter (the soot) and they have higher levels gases that contribute to local smog (oxides of nitrogen). It’s possible to smell when a diesel engine is running plus you will able to see more smoke coming out of the pipe.
Fuel: If you are out on a trip and need to refuel your diesel you will have a much more difficult time finding service stations that sell diesel. Make sure your local neighborhood or a station on your commute or near your place of employment sells diesel. Do some research to see how many, if any, gas stations in your neighborhood or city sell diesel. It’s never much fun to run out on gas.
Selection: There just aren’t a ton of diesel cars to choose from. At one time there were about one hundred and nineteen different diesel models to choose from in the United States. There are more of these kind of cars available for sale in Europe but due to stricter emission limits in many parts of the country the number of available diesel models is now in the dozens. Trucks are very popular but again they also have limited models.
So now the pros for buying a diesel.
Fuel efficiency: Diesel engines are anywhere from 20 – 30% more efficient than gasoline engines. Obviously that will lead to fewer trips to the station to fill up and will leave more money in your pocket. Some new diesels are approaching the 50-mile per gallon mark on fuel economy. As a result you will end up saving a substantial amount of money.
McManus compared price a Jetta with a gasoline engine to a Jetta with a turbo diesel. The turbo diesel car was about $1,000 more, however, the gasoline engine only had an EPA estimate of 31 MPG and the turbo diesel had a 46-MPG rating. The savings on fuel over a time period of three years would even out the cost of the diesel engine purchase.
Longevity: With proper maintenance of your engine it is not unusual for diesel engines to last 250,000 miles and more. Some big rig diesel engines have reportedly even hit the one million mile. Now that is truly incredible.
Performance: Do you like driving fast? Diesel engines have better get up and go than gasoline engines. It will be easier to accelerate plus you will save on gas.
Towing: Diesel engines are tough and work a ton. If you plan to haul heavy loads, tow a boat, a trailer or a 5th wheel a diesel will provide the extra power needed. That’s why so many heavy duty pick up trucks are available with these type of engines.
A diesel engine might be right for you if are looking to use your vehicle for heavy towing, are looking for better gas mileage and superior performance
Written by Jacqueline Star: Used Cars Dallas, Fort Worth Ford
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