Diesel Myths Uncovered

"Diesel engines are more efficient."FALSE
TRUEUnless you are driving a transport vehicle, most new
New diesel engines in Europe get around 5-10 MPGdiesel engines are quiet, and do not produce the same
more than gas engines. Of course, it all depends onsmell. You certainly won't notice it when driving.
how you drive. It also depends on the models you"Diesel is not as available as regular gas."
compare. Small economy class cars like the RenaultFALSE
Clio will be light enough that gas engines are still veryPretty much every gas station will have diesel fuel. If
efficient. The difference is more noticeable with largeryou stop at one and there is no diesel, chances are
vehicles (midsize and up).high that the next one you come to will have diesel.
"Diesel engines aren't as powerful as gas engines."Any gas station near a major highway will have diesel.
FALSE"Diesel is more expensive."
While this may have been true in the early 1980'sTRUE
when diesel cars were essentially in rough draft form,Diesel does cost more, but when you get such better
it is not true at all today. The 2009 Volkswagen Jettagas mileage, its well worth it. As of right now, gas is
TDI (Turbo Diesel Injection) gives you 140 horse poweraround $6 USD per gallon while diesel fuel is only about
and produces 236 ft-lbs of torque while still getting youa dollar more per gallon more expensive. Most people
55+ MPG on the highway. It goes from 0-60 in awould pay an extra $12-15 dollars at the pump to get
respectable 8.2 seconds. Want something nicer? The10 more MPG.
BMW 335D has 265 HP and 425 ft-lbs of torque andYou can always make your trip more affordable with
can go from 0-60 in 6 seconds! It also gets 35+ on thea car rental in Europe. It's a great way to see the
highway.continent at your own pace.
"Diesel engines are smelly and loud."