Petrol Vs diesel

http://rac.com.au/go/motoring/fuel-information/petrol-vs-diesel

Diesel
Diesel engines have been around for many years, predominantly in commercial vehicles.

• The exhaust emissions from diesel engines contain low levels of carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons but they emit more particulates and oxides of nitrogen (Nox) than petrol engines.
• Diesel fuel like petrol has evolved through the years and the focus at the moment is on low-sulphur content to reduce these particulate (smoke) emissions.
• On 1 January 2000, Western Australia introduced a new low-sulphur standard in diesel fuel for locations south of the 25th parallel.
• This regulation limited the level of sulphur to 500 ppm (parts per million).
• From 1 January 2001, this standard was extended to the remainder of WA.
• During 2004 50ppm sulphure fuel was introduced across WA.
• RAC Motoring Advice.

Petrol Vs diesel

The choice of buying a petrol or diesel vehicle will depend on a number of factors including:

• How much you have to spend.
• How far you travel each year.
• If power is an issue.
• If torque is an issue.
• If you are concerned about maintenance costs.
• If you are concerned about fuel economy.

Diesel vehicles are generally more expensive to purchase than petrol vehicles.

• Initial outlay will be more if buying a diesel however the resale value could be better.
• Most medium and large 4WD and commercial vehicles have a diesel version.
• One of the main reasons consumers choose diesel-powered vehicles is for the fuel economy - 20% to 50% less diesel, when compared to an equivalent sized petrol engine.
• Modern turbo-charged diesel vehicle can perform to the same standard as a petrol engine vehicle and still have the advantage of better fuel economy.
• Diesel vehicles generally have better low-down torque - useful in a 4WD vehicle when climbing a steep gradient, as they are less inclined to stall.
• Servicing diesel engines is different as oil changes may be more frequent and fuel filter replacement is critical.
• Major items such as the fuel system require attention, typically at around 100,000km.
• Water or dirt in the fuel is the main enemy of the diesel fuel system, it causes premature wear in the injector pump and injectors.
• Major engine repairs to a diesel are more expensive than a petrol engine as they need to be more robust due to the higher compression ratio however they generally last longer than petrol engines if looked after.
• More information on petrol.