4 Advantages of a Diesel Engine for Your Vehicle
by Gladys Bailey
Before you buy any new vehicle, you want to consider if a diesel engine might be the best choice under the hood. Even for family sedans and smaller cars, diesel can be a better option for a variety of reasons. Note a few of those reasons here and then discuss this choice with a dealer so you can make the right investment for your next vehicle.
1. Better gas mileage
A diesel engine is able to convert more heat into power than a standard petrol engine, so it offers better gas mileage since it is running more efficiently. This is very important for those who want to save money at the pump however possible, or who may already be spending quite a bit on gas with a heavier, larger vehicle or because of towing something.
2. More pickup
Unlike a petrol engine, a diesel engine doesn't get its power from faster revolutions of the engine's pistons. Because diesel engines convert heat to power, they offer better pickup when you're idling. This can be important for heavier vehicles and for when you're towing something behind you, as you may need this added power to keep your vehicle from behind bogged down and hesitating when you try to accelerate. You may also simply like the added pickup for city driving when you can quickly get through lights or traffic without having to rev your engine and cause it excessive wear and tear.
3. Less wear and tear
Speaking of wear and tear on an engine, diesel engines actually burn cooler than petrol engines. Heat from an engine causes corrosion and excessive wear on your vehicle's engine, so a diesel engine may need fewer repairs and may also last longer than a petrol engine because of not running as hot.
4. Higher torque
Torque refers to the force needed to make an object spin, and diesel engines have a higher torque than standard petrol engines. This makes them stronger overall. Horsepower refers to how fast an engine can go, but horsepower won't help you when you're towing something or for when you want to drive a heavier, larger vehicle. The added strength of a diesel engine can mean being able to more readily haul or tow something without the vehicle being weighed down; this is especially important if you need to haul something uphill or over soft dirt, muddy roads, and other such conditions when more power will help get you through safely.
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About Me
Hi all! I'm Gary and I run a non-profit which teaches defensive driving skills. Of course, most of my students are in their teens, but I did have one gentleman who had received his license at sixty-two! We use an old speedway track to teach drivers what to do when obstacles are on the road and generally how to react in emergencies. I love what I do! Many companies see the benefit of this program and donate generously. My biggest expense by far is maintaining and repairing the cars we use in training. Not all students gain skills quickly! Even though I'm a driving instructor and not a mechanic, I now know an awful lot about car parts and where to find them. My students are often quite impressed by my broad knowledge base, so I thought I would share it with the world. Thank you and stay safe.