Petrol vs. Diesel Cars: What's the Better Choice?

01/08/2024 09:00 Share

Petrol vs. Diesel Cars: What's the Better Choice?

When choosing between a petrol car or a diesel car, there are several factors to consider. These are fuel efficiency, cost, and performance. With this in mind, you can assess your needs and your driving habits to make an informed decision.

In a world where electric cars are being pushed to the front of the queue, it could seem counterintuitive to choose petrol or diesel. However, there is a time and a place for them. The ban on sales of new petrol and diesel cars is due in 2035. This means there’s still over a decade before this ban comes into effect. That’s plenty of time to own any car. Especially petrol or diesel. But which do you choose?

Which is more fuel efficient?

If you’re looking to save fuel money, diesels have long been the top dog. If you drive long distances, diesel cars are best for making the most of the fuel in your tank. Diesel provides more energy per litre. While diesel is usually marginally more expensive to fill up at the pump, you will get far more miles for your money with your tank. However, diesel cars tend to be more expensive in terms of upfront cost. Petrol cars are generally cheaper to buy so this must be considered when thinking about your budget.

Which performs better, diesel or petrol?

As diesel provides more power at lower revs, you don’t need to change gear as much. Which also helps fuel consumption, especially on longer distance driving. This also helps if you need to use your car for towing. A diesel car will cope with the load much more easily than petrol. If you’re after quicker acceleration and generally more nimble driving, a petrol car is a better option. For driving in a city for example, the petrol car handles stop and go traffic with ease.

Which is cheaper to maintain?

Diesel engines have a great reputation for being longer lasting if you look after them. Such as regular oil changes and ensuring you ‘stretch their legs’. Diesels don’t tend to work well if you use them for short journeys regularly. Petrol cars are better for this. However, maintenance and repair costs for diesels are generally higher when they do need it. Whereas petrol cars are cheaper to both maintain and repair. But they don’t tend to have the same robustness of lifespan.

So, do I buy diesel or petrol?

The best advice would be to think about your priorities. If you’re looking for a longer-lasting investment in an economical car for longer journeys, a diesel car is your best choice. If you’re completing shorter journeys and you want to save money on buying price and maintenance, a petrol car is for you. Check out our site for the latest brand new and quality used vehicles to help choose the perfect car for you.