Thinking New Car? Ever Thought About a Diesel?

by Jim Thompson | Last Updated: January 11, 2021

Diesel cars can be a great option as long as you know the pros and cons of buying one. If you’re interested in a car with exceptional power good fuel efficiency, review these tips to be sure that you get the great deal that you’re looking for in a diesel car.

What is a Diesel Car?

There are a number of differences between standard vehicles and diesel cars. Specifically, diesel cars run on diesel fuel, which is less volatile, yet more efficient than gasoline.

You may have noticed that diesel engines are a little noisier than gasoline engines. This distinctive engine sound is actually an attraction to some enthusiasts. The diesel engine is also capable of producing a great deal of torque at low speeds, also a selling point for many buyers.

The diesel engine uses compression ignition. Unlike a gasoline engine, which needs an electric spark to ignite an air/fuel mixture. Diesel engines work by compressing air and then injecting the diesel fuel into the compression chamber, which causes a reaction that ignites the mixture.

It is imperative that you know this: gasoline and diesel fuel are NOT interchangeable. A diesel must have diesel fuel to operate and cannot run on gasoline.

Disadvantages to Diesel

There are some drawbacks to diesel cars. Depending on your specific needs, economic, and ecological considerations, these cons could make or break your decision to buy diesel.

Diesel fuel is more expensive than gasoline.
Diesel cars are usually more expensive than gasoline-powered vehicles.
Diesel engines may produce harmful emissions that are detrimental to the environment. Converting to biodiesel may reduce these effects, but will also lower the efficiency of the engine.

Advantages to Diesel

There are many benefits that a diesel engine can provide to a new car buyer. You should be aware of these differences before buying a diesel car.

Biodiesel is a renewable fuel that a diesel car can utilize with minimal modifications.
Diesel engines typically last much longer than their gasoline counterparts.
The lower volatility of diesel fuel can make your car easier to maintain and lowers the chances of fire in an auto accident.
The fuel economy of a diesel engine can rival that of a hybrid engine.
Diesel engines produce lots of torque at low speeds, making them ideal for larger vehicles and for towing a trailer.

Buying a diesel car is a big decision. Weigh out the pros and cons, and see if diesel is the way to go to suit your specific needs.