Diesel or Petrol Car: Which Should you Choose?

Are you thinking about buying a new or used car, but is unsure as to whether you want to opt for a diesel or petrol car? Or do you want to just skip the “traditional” options entirely and go electric?

If you are having a tough time deciding between petrol or diesel powered car, then continue reading. 

Diesel or Petrol Car: Let's Discuss the Pros and Cons

The truth is that the majority of used cars for sale run on either petrol or diesel engine- so you will need to do some research to help make an informed decision about which type of car to buy. Here is some of our research to assist you in selecting between diesel or petrol car.

Diesel

Pros:

One of the great things about diesel cars is that they have more power at lower engine speeds than gasoline cars. Diesel fuel contains more energy than gasoline in the same amount - which means you will get better mpgs than gasoline.

Diesel cars are better for taking on long trips and towing, due to having more power. If you have a big family or simply love to take a trip to the great outdoors, or enjoy a long sunset drive then a diesel car might be the option for you.

Another thing to note is that Diesel cars have become even more efficient over the past decade or so. You can say thanks to the addition of high-tech electronic injectors and common-rail systems - which allow for highly accurate diesel fuel delivery, resulting in less soot production.

Cons:

Although newer diesel vehicles produce fewer emissions, that is not the same for older diesel engines that emit nitrogen oxide (NOx) gases - which have been linked to severe environmental consequences, difficulty breathing, and other health problems. If you are thinking about buying an older diesel model, this is something to think about.

Most newer diesel vehicles have a diesel particulate filter (DPF) in their exhaust that reduces harmful particulate emissions. For the DPF to be activated your engine must reach a specific temperature - which means if you tend to take shorter trips, the DPF may become blocked and be costly to repair.

Petrol

Pros:

If you are looking for an inexpensive, simple car that you use for short trips, then a petrol vehicle is a good choice. Filling up your tank will cost you about 44 cents less per litre than diesel. The operation of petrol engines differs majorly from that of a diesel engine, and they emit significantly less pollution. 

Although recently we have seen many advances in diesel engine technology, gasoline-powered vehicles generally drive smoother and quieter than diesel vehicles. This is again linked directly to the way the engine of a petrol vehicle operates. 

Cons:

On the other hand, petrol vehicles emit more carbon dioxide (CO2)  from their exhaust pipes than diesel cars of the same size. CO2 is one of the most significant “greenhouse gases” that affect the climate and our environment. Due to the higher emission of CO2, petrol cars registered before April 2017 are likely to cost more in taxes. This is something you should take into consideration, especially if you are looking to buy an older second-hand car. 

It's Time to Decide: Diesel or Petrol Car? 

Well, the answer is determined entirely based on how you intend to use your new car and what your needs and wants are. If you travel long distances regularly and need a vehicle that can handle rougher roads, a diesel car may be a better option. If you want a smoother ride in a small, quick car, then a petrol car should be your go-to.

Are you looking for more tips like this?

Visit our Car Research section and our available new (or used) cars that you might like at our website: https://www.motormatcher.com.au/.