Fuel economy/performance of Diesel vs. Gasoline Engines

When trying to decide between diesel vs gasoline engines,
there are two main factors to take into consideration: fuel efficiency
and performance. It’s easily thought that greater fuel efficiency equals
suffering performance and that diesels equal great performance with
terrible fuel efficiency. There are developments going on that are
changing those stigma’s to offer both performance and fuel efficiency,
even in diesels.

Fuel Economy in Gas Engines

Gasoline is cheaper than diesel across most of the U.S. Because of
exhaust design, the gas engine also releases less NOx into the air,
making them “greener” than diesel engines. Generally the higher the
performance, the lower the gas mileage. This is due to the use of more
powerful engines.

Fuel Economy in Diesel Engines

Diesel engines get better MPGs than gas engines, which is part of
their popularity. It pushes fuel through at a higher rate of pressure,
which gets the vehicle down the road further, but in doing so also
releases about 13 percent more CO2 than gas engines. A diesel engine can
run bio-diesel without any modifications to the engine, often giving an
option that burns cheaper and may improve mileage depending on driving
conditions.

Performance in Gas Engines

Performance is a relative term considering all the after market
upgrades people do. Gasoline comes in a variety of mixes, which offer
higher quality fuel with additives to help your engine run and perform
better. This is one way to help your gas engine perform better. Many
vehicles offer sport versions of the models available, giving you better
performance right off the lot. 

Performance in Diesel Engines

Diesel engines are known for their heavy duty performance and often
preferred in work trucks and other heavy equipment. Diesel engines are
also built to idle longer than gas engines, which brings a different
level of performance to them. Most heavy duty vehicle manufacturers
promote and offer turbo options stock, making a diesel engine more
powerful.

What It All Means

It all depends on what you’re looking for. A diesel can provide good
fuel economy and a higher level of performance, but if you just don’t
want to deal with the pollution factor and potentially higher fuel
costs, a gas engine might be right for you. A gas engine is often
available in economical versions and many models offer sport editions
with better performance engine packages. Consider the performance you
need, the driving conditions you’ll face on a daily basis and how you
plan to use your vehicle before making a choice. This will help you
determine if you want the power of a diesel with the fuel economy they
offer, or if you’re looking for the ultimate sport performance package
with multiple fuel options.

Regardless of what you’re looking for in the way of fuel economy and
performance, there are more options out there than you think. Take the
time to consider diesel vs. gasoline engines to make sure you choose the
right one for your lifestyle, vehicle needs, budget and fuel
consciousness.