What are the characteristics of diesel engines compared to gasoline engines?
2 Answers
Compared to gasoline engines, diesel engines have the following characteristics: higher thermal efficiency, better economic performance, larger compression ratio, smaller size and lighter weight, better mobility, higher reliability, longer lifespan, and easier maintenance. Diesel engines emit significantly fewer harmful gases than gasoline engines (especially less CO), making them more environmentally friendly compared to gasoline engines. Here is some additional information: 1. Disadvantages of diesel engines: lower speed compared to gasoline engines, heavier weight, higher manufacturing and maintenance costs, louder noise, and difficulty in starting. Additionally, diesel vehicles often operate on highways for long periods, resulting in higher engine temperatures and pressures. This leads to more soot and carbon deposits in the cylinders, and the engine oil is prone to oxidation and gum formation. Therefore, diesel engine oil must have excellent high-temperature detergency. 2. Characteristics of gasoline engines: smaller size, lighter weight, and better starting performance. In gasoline engines, the air-fuel mixture enters the cylinder and is ignited by the spark plug near the end of the compression stroke.
I've been driving diesel vehicles for many years, and I believe the biggest advantages of diesel engines are fuel efficiency and durability. Compared to gasoline engines, they use compression to ignite diesel, achieving 20-30% higher fuel efficiency. On long trips, they consume 2-3 liters less fuel per 100 kilometers, and with diesel being cheaper, you can save thousands in fuel costs annually. The torque output is particularly strong, making it easy to handle heavy loads or climb hills, with powerful starts. However, the downsides are the noise and vibration, especially during cold starts when the engine hums loudly and vibrations are noticeable inside the car. Gasoline engines are much quieter, with smoother and more fluid acceleration, making them more suitable for city traffic jams. In terms of maintenance, diesel engines have a longer lifespan, capable of running for hundreds of thousands of kilometers, but the fuel filter and DPF system require frequent cleaning to avoid clogging issues. Overall, diesel engines are better suited for freight and long-distance driving, while gasoline engines are more appropriate for daily commuting—it all depends on your driving needs and budget balance.
