Cars are, after all, another great big expensive gadget that we love to splurge/spend on. So in follow up to our previous guide on buying a car we think it’s best to give a few tips about the specifics (i.e., options and choices you can look out for).

One basic question would be the engine type: gas (or petrol, as some cultures would prefer to call it) or diesel. These are worlds apart in terms of the various benefits and disadvantages. Diesel-powered cars, however, are not as popular as petrol-powered ones particularly in passenger cars in America. But in other parts of the world–particularly in Europe, since the EU has stringent emissions standards–diesels are fairly popular. If you’re considering buying a car soon, and thinking of your engine options, read on.

Here are some disadvantages of diesel engines.

• Heavier than comparable gas engines- this results to a heavier vehicle.
• More expensive, so this will add to the cost of your purchase.
• Slow acceleration (they’re meant for torque rather than horsepower, meaning better pulling power).
• Produce more smoke - Diesel engine fumes may be bad for your health, if you have lung problems.
• Diesel engines work with heating up the fuel for combustion, and hence can be difficult to start in cold weather.
• Noisier and have a tendency to vibrate more than gas engines.
• Diesel fuel may not be readily available in some areas.

Here are benefits of diesel engines.

• Better fuel efficiency - You get more miles per gallon of fuel on a diesel. Most likely, diesel will be cheaper than petrol, too.
• Lower carbon emissions - Diesels are considered environment friendly, in this regard, since they put off significantly less Carbon Dioxide than petrol engines (though they release more particulates in smoke).
• Use of biodiesels - Some diesel powered vehicles can run on “clean” diesel–fuel derived from vegetables, ethanol or other oils (rather than fossil fuel).
• Longer lifetime - Diesel engines can last twice (in terms of mileage) than comparable gas powered engines. This means your vehicle can have a longer serviceable life.
• Better pulling power - Diesels may not necessarily be able to overtake gas-powered cars in terms of acceleration, but diesels can haul heavier loads.
• Better idling endurance - You can leave your vehicle idling for extended periods (hours, even) without overheating.

The list of pros and cons extends farther–we can only cite a few. In the end, it boils down to user preference. If you’re in need of a large pickup truck or SUV for hauling your trailer, boat, or some other load, a diesel is probably best for you. If you prefer a small commuter car built for a smooth, comfortable ride, then you’re probably best off with petrol. However, these days, the line is being blurred in terms of comfort and smoothness of ride. So we think it’s best to choose according to your needs and the intended use of your car.

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