3 Advantages Of Diesel Engines
With the ever increasing cost of gasoline, many people are searching for ways to cut down on their monthly fuel bill. One such alternative is to upgrade to a diesel-fueled car or truck. Yet many people fail to consider this option, mainly because they don't fully understand the advantages of diesel. Here are three distinct advantages of diesel engines.
1. Better Fuel Economy
Diesel engines offer better fuel economy than gasoline engines, hands down. In fact, on average, the fuel economy of diesel engines is between 20 and 30 percent better than comparatively sized gasoline engines. Such economy is more than great enough to make up for the marginally higher cost of diesel fuel. This means that not only will you have to make less stops to fill up, but you'll end up spending considerably less on fuel in the long run.
2. Lower Maintenance Costs
Diesel engines are exceptionally rugged and long-lasting when compared to their gasoline consuming brethren. This has a lot to do with the method of fuel combustion used in diesel engines. Because they use what is known as compression ignition, diesel engines don't require the use of spark plugs or ignition coils--both common causes of maintenance issues in gasoline engines.
Their unique style of combustion also means that diesel engines generate less heat, which in turn places less stress on mechanical components. Likewise, diesel engines operate at lower RPMs than gasoline engines. This helps to boost the lifespan of moving parts, and reduce maintenance needs. In general, a diesel engine can go almost twice as long as an equivalent gasoline engine before requiring any major maintenance.
Another mechanical advantage of diesel engines has to do with the fuel itself. You see, unlike gasoline, diesel functions not only as a fuel source, but as a lubricant as well. This means that all of the fuel system components are being constantly bathed in lubricant, thus keeping them at peak performance.
3. Diesel Vehicles Have Lower Depreciation
Buying a new car can be an intimidating venture, especially when considering the rapid rate of automobile depreciation. Generally speaking, a new car loses between 15 and 20% of its value each year. But for those who buy diesel, the prospects are not quite so bleak. In fact, one recent study suggests that 90% of diesel vehicles maintain a higher value than the equivalent gasoline powered vehicle, over a five year period.
Bottom Line
For many people, diesel vehicles remain an intimidating mystery. Yet the more you learn, the more you will come to see that purchasing a diesel car or truck offers a number of distinct advantages over gasoline powered vehicles. The points raised in this article represent just a few of diesel's amazing benefits. For more information, contact a professional like Nelson Petroleum.