One of the main questions when buying a vehicle or machinery is whether to purchase one with a diesel or gasoline engine. The choice will depend, fundamentally, on the use you are going to give it. To try to clarify certain points, we are going to make a small comparison between diesel vs gasoline engine to find out some of their main differences.
The truth is that there are notable differences between one type of engine and another. Choosing the most suitable one will depend on a series of factors. The most advisable thing to do is to take into account your needs and the consumption that you are likely to give it. This will allow you to make the best choice between one engine or the other.
Diesel vs gasoline engine comparison
One of the main differences between a diesel engine and a gasoline engine is that the former is more fuel efficient. It is therefore ideal for those who are going to use the car or machinery for long distances or intensively. However, the price per liter is cheaper in gasoline engines.
Gasoline engines are quieter than diesel engines and easier to service in the event of a breakdown. Diesel engines, on the other hand, emit fewer CO2 emissions and provide a feeling of effortless acceleration. In addition to these, there are other differentiating factors to consider while choosing between diesel and gasoline engine.
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Diesel vs gasoline engine activation mode
The activation systems of the diesel and gasoline engines are different. In the case of diesel, the fuel burns naturally and the system has a high compression ratio. These engines start from an electric motor, so they can take longer if the weather is very cold.
Gasoline engines, on the other hand, have an electronic ignition system. An electronic control unit is responsible for carrying out the entire ignition process. Inside the combustion chamber, a series of sparks are produced, making it a safe and efficient system.
Diesel vs gasoline engine weight
Another of the main differences in this diesel vs gasoline engine comparison has to do with the weight of each one of them. As a fuel itself, diesel is heavier than gasoline, since the hydrogen and carbon chains in diesel are longer and heavier than in gasoline.
The diesel engine, on the other hand, requires a larger structure, so any machinery with this type of engine will weigh more than a gasoline engine.
Diesel vs gasoline engine performance
In general, a diesel engine provides better performance than a gasoline engine. In fact, its consumption is lower (approximately 25%-30% less). The maximum efficiency of a diesel engine is usually around 45%, while that of gasoline engines is less than 40%.
However, the larger and more refined the engine, the better the performance. The difference in performance lies in the compression ratio, because the higher the compression ratio, the higher the performance. Diesel engines are designed to have higher compression ratios than gasoline engines.
Main differences between diesel and gasoline engines
As a summary, let’s see in this table the main differences in the diesel vs gasoline engine comparison:
|
|
Consumption | CO2 Emissions | Mode of activation | Weight |
Performance |
| Diesel engine |
More efficient |
Emits less fuel | Fuel burns naturally and there is a higher compression ratio | Heavier, requires a larger structure |
Ranges between 40% and 45% |
| Gasoline engine |
Less efficient |
Emits greater quantity | Electronic ignition system with control unit | Less heavy |
Not reaching 40% |