The historical advantage of having a diesel engine has been the engines better fuel efficiency. Diesel engines can give you up to 50% more mileage than regular gasoline engines, especially if the driver normally drives at slow speeds.  

Historically diesel fuel has been less expensive to refine making it more affordable for consumers than gasoline. And, although diesel vehicles normally cost more, the buyer usually recoups his extra costs within 3 years from gas savings.

 

With today’s current market it’s really hard to say if diesel engines are still considered to be a more economic choice. Due to the current oil issues arising, diesel fuel prices have been hitting some historic highs. Before making a decision on buying a diesel vehicle I would do your research and also check out some other options, such as hydrogen cell and hybrid vehicles.

 

Before ending I do want to point out another perk of the diesel engine that may appeal to some readers. Diesels have more torque than gasoline engines, giving the trucks a bigger pulling advantage. If you are buying a truck to do a lot of heavy hauling, diesel engines will out perform gasoline engines in a pulling competition every time.