Diesel Engines: 7 Pros And Cons Of Buying A Diesel Car

If you are in the market to buy a new vehicle, you may be wondering what type of engine would be the most efficient and the most durable.

There are several aspects to consider when purchasing a new car in order to settle on one that is most suitable for your personal and financial preferences. While diesel engines may be a bit more pricey, diesel vehicles are often appropriate choices as drivers consider engine durability, vehicle reliability, and running costs.

It is essential to consider your initial costs and average running costs as petrol vehicles may initially be more affordable. Although the high costs of petroleum suggest that running costs and maintenance costs would be a lot higher.

Most drivers consider diesel vehicles a significantly powerful alternative to petrol cars, although, there are also a few downfalls that should be taken into account. The following pros and cons of diesel cars will help you decide which engine type is the best for your needs.

1. Optimal mileage

Diesel engines usually boast a significantly higher mileage in comparison to petroleum vehicles, which is often the reason drivers consider diesel cars a wiser choice.

As diesel engines are roughly 20 per cent to 30 per cent more fuel economy when compared to petrol engines, you would be able to save substantially on your general fuel bill. In addition to this, you could also consider purchasing your regular road diesel from a reliable supplier to further your fuel savings.

Opting for a vehicle that boasts high mileage will also add convenience to your travelling. As you would be able to travel further on one tank of fuel rather than having to make several stops at filling stations along the way.

2. Diesel price hikes

Unless you are purchasing your diesel from an affordable supplier, the cost of diesel often matches gasoline.

While diesel is sometimes slightly higher in price than gasoline or petroleum, this fact often misleads drivers into believing that there would generally be absolutely no savings involved.

However, the price of diesel would have to be as much as 30 per cent higher than gasoline to erase any notable savings. This is because diesel is by far one of the most efficient energy-dense fuels available on the market.

3. Engine efficiency

Diesel engines are crafted for efficiency and because they usually require less maintenance in comparison to petroleum engine vehicles, you would be able to take advantage of engine efficiency.

A reduction in major repairs would also host a series of great savings for drivers. However, neglecting maintenance on a diesel engine would result in astronomical repair costs.

The one major downfall of diesel engines may be the higher cost of major repairs in comparison to regular petroleum vehicles. Considering drivers maintain diesel engines regularly, these vehicles would be far more reliable on a long-term basis when compared to similar gasoline or diesel engine vehicles.

Engine efficiency also means that diesel vehicles would be much more reliable compared to gasoline and petrol alternatives as engines are significantly more durable.

4. Enhanced power

As a result of the unique functioning of diesel engines and how they burn fuel, drivers are able to enjoy enhanced engine power and torque. Therefore, diesel engines are significantly faster and more powerful than petrol alternatives.

Opting for a diesel engine means you will be able to out-tow any petrol engine vehicle as a result of enhanced engine power. Enhanced power is often the reason many drivers opt for diesel vehicles as this aspect greatly affects the driving experience.

5. Higher resale value

When comparing diesel vehicles to petrol or gasoline alternatives, another main advantage is that diesel vehicles generally have a much higher resell value. However, this aspect would be greatly reliant on how well maintained the vehicle is.

Stronger resale value also means that you would not battle to find a private buyer for your vehicle, and you would also receive a higher trade-in value should you opt to trade your diesel vehicle at an auto dealership.

6. Environmental pollution

Even though the most eco-friendly vehicle choice would logically be hybrid vehicles, the staggering price tag on electric and hybrid cars suggests that it is not exactly a realistic choice for most drivers.

When comparing the pollution associated with gasoline vehicles to diesel vehicles, it would be far wiser to opt for a diesel engine.

Diesel engines emit far less harmful pollutants which means they would be the next best eco-friendly choice for those who cannot afford the astronomical costs of hybrid and electric cars.

7. Purchase price

Even though diesel vehicles may initially be slightly more expensive as they are technically more complex compared to petrol or gasoline vehicles, engine efficiency and fuel economy suggest that you would be spending less on running costs.

The initial investment would ultimately result in significant savings and far less damage to the environment.

Petrol vehicles may be the most appropriate choice for young drivers who won’t be travelling too much. As the initial purchase price is lower and fuel consumption can be minimized by travelling less.

However, in most situations, it is the best solution to invest in a vehicle that will be able to offer affordable running costs and high reliability.

While diesel technology is constantly undergoing improvements, diesel engines are often a great choice for drivers who are after fuel economic engines that won’t compromise the power and speed of the vehicle.

Even though smaller petrol vehicles may be able to offer low running costs, the significant lack of engine power and durability paired with a notable increase in engine repairs suggests that drivers would essentially spend more in the long run on vehicle running costs.

As a result, diesel engines are often the wiser choice for money-savvy drivers after reliable vehicles.

Before making a purchase you should assess your travel needs and establish a suitable budget. Whether you are considering purchasing a vehicle in cash, applying for vehicle finance, or leasing the car of your dreams, it is essential that you have already determined your affordability.

Pros and Cons of Diesel Cars and Diesel Engines

Here are some of the pros and cons of diesel cars and diesel engines to consider when making vehicle purchases:

• Optimal mileage

• Diesel price hikes

• Engine efficiency

• Enhanced power

• Higher resale value

• Environmental pollution

• Purchase price