automobiles

Quest, Todays Diesel engines are much more desireable than the ones of the past. They run very quite and are very efficient. Its not unusual for a Diesel engine to last two or three times longer or more than their gasoline counterparts. At one time it could be difficult to find Diesel fuel but now days it is readily available at most all filling station's J.Conway

Basic information.

In the USA, diesel is significantly more expensive than what you call petrol. Diesel used to be cheaper than petrol in the USA, I believe it has something to do with newer formulations that generate less soot when burned. May or may not be more expensive where you live. If so, you have to factor that against the better mileage you get from a diesel engine.

Diesel engines are much better for running for long periods, as in over-the-road truck transportation. A petrol engine is better for short trips with lots of start and stops. If you are a delivery van you can use diesel and just leave the engine running while you get out and make the delivery - diesels use very little fuel at idle.

In short terms, the more work you need the engine to do, the more the diesel will reward you. A diesel engine consumes fuel at a relatively constant rate, weather under load, or idling. A gasoline, or petrol engine has dramatically different fuel consumption rates when asked to perform work. It has a lot to do with the torque output of a diesel, and the RPM it produces it at. Petrol engines need to be revved higher to get the torque out of them. This will cost you in fuel consumption. I hope this helps.