Diesel vs petrol

It is generally accepted that diesel engines are more economical in terms of fuel consumption and yet petrol engines seem to be preferred by motoring specialists. If diesel fuel is, say, 10% more expensive than petrol, this additional cost is offset by an a far greater increase in miles per gallon.

There must, therefore, be other reasons why petrol cars are being recommended. Would you please explain.

Many thanks,

Peter Hammond

Asked on 14 April 2012 by Peter Hammond

Answered by Honest John
The fact that the increased complexity of current generation diesel engines in order to meet emissions regulations makes them 2.5 - 3 times more expensive to make as petrol engines as well as vulnerable to expensive failures that between years 3 and 6 can cost an owner £5,000.
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