Why Diesel?
I'm not going to tell you that all diesel vehicles are better than gas but my goal is to try and make diesel simpler so you can make an informed decision on buying your next vehicle.
To understand why a diesel vehicle would be the right decision for your next vehicle you will have to understand the differences between a gasoline and diesel engine. The major difference between the two is the way the fuel is ignited. A gasoline engine uses a spark plug to ignite the fuel/air mixture entering the combustion chamber, whereas a diesel ignites the fuel/air mixture by using the natural compression/heat the engine produces. The major difference between a gasoline and diesel vehicle is their compression ratios. A typical pump gas engine will have a compression ratio of 9:1 where diesel engines are closer to 19:1.
How do these characteristics determine whether a diesel is right for you? Let me tell you! A diesel engine runs way higher pressure in the combustion chamber forcing the piston and rotating assembly down with more force than a comparable gasoline engine. This is why diesel engines have higher torque numbers than gasoline. This also means the rotating assemblies in diesel engines have to be built heavier and stronger to withstand the extra strain put onto the parts.
If you are shopping for a new vehicle consider these differences. A diesel vehicle will normally have a higher price tag due to the higher cost the diesel engine requires to manufacture. Diesel engines generally cost more to maintain than gasoline engines. They have higher torque to horsepower numbers, this means diesel engines want to be worked! The development of the diesel engine was a more efficient way to do the internal combustion engine, and it is really the only economical alternative today. If you are pulling your boat to the lake or your trailer to the job-site, a diesel vehicle is probably right for you!
