Should I buy a Petrol or Diesel car?
Buying a car is so complex because there are so many things to consider that sometimes this even prevents people from buying a car entirely. One of the main choices people had to previously make when buying a car was whether to buy a petrol or diesel car. Aside from the countless options available in those two categories, there’s also hybrid and electric options to consider. We’re here to guide you, so let’s take a look at some facts of each engine to help you decide which is right for you.
Other car owners will probably be trying to convince you to buy a diesel because a diesel is known to have better fuel consumption and lower CO2 emissions. However, in South Africa, car sellers and buyers alike don’t give much attention to CO2 emissions.
On the other hand, petrol engines are beginning to close the gap on diesel engines when it comes to benefits. The latest turbocharged petrol engines will give diesel engines a good run for torque and low running costs, which is two of the main things that sway diesel buyers.
Is one type of fuel more superior?
It’s not that simple to say outright if one type of fuel is better than the other. There are other factors to consider which will ultimately affect your decision in which one to buy. These factors include things like the price of each fuel type, the fuel consumption rate of the models you are considering, the cost difference between the two types of cars, the daily trips you will be making with the car and even market availability will influence your decision.
Advantages of a diesel engine
Price
Diesel is generally cheaper at the pumps than petrol. While this price changes every month, the price of diesel, for both 500PPM and 50PPM, still remains below that of unleaded petrol.
Lower CO2 emissions
Overseas, automakers are put under immense pressure to reduce carbon emissions. The emissions regulations are becoming more stringent with every passing year. Because of this, the automakers are constantly striving to produce cars that are more fuel efficient. Features added to cars to achieve this include introductions like Stop/Start, cruise control and cylinder deactivations. These features have assisted in improving fuel efficiency on both petrol and diesel engines.
Better for longer journeys
Compared to petrol engines, diesel engines push out more power at lower revs which is why they are better suited for longer journeys. This is where petrol engines have to work harder to produce the same power.
Towing
Diesel engines produce more torque than petrol engines, which makes it ideal for towing heavier loads.
Better fuel economy
Generally, diesel cars give you better fuel consumption than petrol cars, particularly when used for longer trips. This is because diesel fuel is said to contain more energy than petrol.
Disadvantages of a diesel engine
More costly to purchase
Diesel cars are more expensive than petrol cars because of the technology they are fitted with to reduce particulate emissions.
Poor air quality
Since diesel engines operate at higher temperatures, they emit more nitrogen oxide (NOx). This is a very toxic gas that has been linked to causing poor air quality which in turn has lead to breathing difficulties. In some cases, it has been reported to even cause lung ailments.
Diesels don’t like short trips
Modern diesel engines contain a diesel particulate filter (DPF) in the exhaust that reduces harmful particulate emissions. For this filter to function efficiently, it requires the engine to reach a certain temperature. If the car is mainly doing short and low-speed trips, there’s a chance that the DPF can get blocked. A blocked DPF will cause engine problems which will be costly to fix.
Advantages of a petrol engine
Ideal for short trips
For quick trips like fetching the kids from school or doing a grocery run or trips around the city then a petrol car is the ideal option. Don’t underestimate the small, modern petrol engines as they are equipped with turbochargers that are responsive and fuel-efficient.
Less air pollution
Much different to CO2 emissions, petrol engines produce a lower number of particulate emissions. Particulate emissions have a considerable impact on local air pollution, which we know contributes to respiratory and other health problems, particularly in urban areas.
Driving Experience
Despite how far diesel engines have come, petrol engines are more responsive and run more smoothly. They are also quieter than diesel engines. This is because of how differently they operate – on cold start, petrol engines even have less of a vibration inside.
Disadvantages of a petrol engine
Price of petrol
As we’ve established, the price of petrol in South Africa is more expensive than diesel.
Maintenance
When compared to diesel engines, petrol engines have the tendency of clogging up more quickly, requiring more frequent maintenance. When not serviced on time or regularly, petrol engines can deteriorate quicker than diesel engines.
Learn about Hybrid Cars: Advantages and Disadvantages of Hybrid Cars
So, should I buy a Petrol or Diesel car?
We can’t tell you whether a petrol or diesel is the ideal option for you. That ultimately depends on what your needs and daily driving involves. For some buyers, a diesel would suit them better and or for others a petrol would work better. If you’re still undecided, speak to one of salesmen today.
There are many high-quality pre-owned cars to choose from at Digi Cars. We’re loading more stock every day, so if you don’t find what you’re looking for today, visit the site again in a few days to see what’s new. Shop online now, buy it and have it delivered to your door.