Back to index
Petrol or Diesel?

Petrol or Diesel?
16 January 2015
For an off- roader, a powerful engine is of less importance than one might think. The old Land Rovers had small engines, but their off-road reputation is enviable. This is because the engines, although small, could deliver their power and torque at very low rpm, and this is what is important when driving off-road. But what about petrol vs diesel engines?
Petrol Advantages:
- Quieter
- More powerful than similar sized diesel engine
- More mechanics understand petrol engines
- Easier roadside maintenance and repairs
- Less expensive to maintain, repair or overhaul.
Petrol Disadvantages:
- Develops maximum torque at a higher rpm
- Higher fuel consumption
- Non-availability of petrol in certain areas (especially unleaded)
Diesel Advantages:
- Torque characteristics - maximum torque at low rpm
- Excellent engine braking characteristics
- Normal electrical problems caused by wading are non-existent
- More economical - longer range
- More readily available in certain remote areas
Diesel Disadvantages:
- More noisy
- Less power than similar sized petrol engines
- Limited roadside maintenance and repairs
- Fewer mechanics understand diesel engines
- Expensive repairs and maintenance
categories
Comments