Diesel vs. gas engines: what's the difference?

Diesel vs. gas engines: what are the key differences?

• Fuel type: Regular gasoline is more volatile than diesel fuel and evaporates more quickly. Regular gasoline burns cleaner than diesel fuel, but with less energy per unit.
• Fuel cost: While diesel fuel is generally more efficient than gas, it's typically more expensive. Find out the average price difference for diesel fuel compared to regular, mid-grade, and premium gas in your state.
• Power: Gasoline engines are designed for speed and acceleration, which require higher RPMs. Diesel engines have higher torque than gasoline engines, which is why they're preferred for towing.
• Fuel efficiency: Diesel engines are typically much more fuel-efficient than gas engines, even those with very high compression ratios. Diesel fuel is also more energy-dense than gasoline, meaning more energy per gallon. As a result, it's not uncommon for a diesel-powered car to get 50 mpg or higher.
• Environmental impact: When it comes to greenhouse gas emissions, diesel engines emit less carbon dioxide per mile than gas engines, according to AZO Cleantech. However, gas engines emit lower levels of nitrogen oxides and particulate matter, which contribute to air pollution.
• Life expectancy: Diesel engines must handle extremely high compression forces, so they are built more sturdily than gas engines. In fact, according to the Universal Technical Institute, the average lifespan of a diesel engine is typically around 500,000 miles, and with proper maintenance, can last up to 800,000 miles.

Is diesel better than gas?

Diesel engines and gas engines appeal to different drivers. If you prioritize fuel efficiency, longevity, and torque, you may prefer a diesel engine to a gas engine. If you prioritize speed and acceleration, lower upfront costs, and limiting air pollution, you may prefer a gas engine.

Should I buy a diesel truck or car?

Your decision to buy a diesel car or truck depends on your location, driving style, driving habits, and more. If you live in a city and drive short distances at low speeds, it might not make sense to purchase a diesel car or truck. In fact, city driving may even cause clogging of the engine's particulate filter. A diesel car is a great choice, however, if you frequently drive long distances due to their impressive fuel efficiency.

If you frequently pull big loads, a diesel truck is a great option due to their high torque. The focus on power over speed does have its drawbacks, as many drivers prefer the speed and performance of a high-RPM gasoline engine.

If you're able to afford the higher upfront costs of buying a diesel car or truck, the longevity and reliability of diesel vehicles can be major benefits. Diesel vehicles may cost more upfront than a gasoline-powered vehicle, but diesel engines generally don't require as much maintenance and last longer than gasoline-powered cars and trucks.

The higher purchasing price of a diesel vehicle combined with their more expensive parts and repairs may mean higher costs for car insurance. But your insurance rate is determined by several factors, including age, location, driving history, and more.