What is the difference between gasoline engines and diesel engines?

[LePaisley]

Gasoline engines and diesel engines differ in the following ways: 1. Combustion method: Gasoline engines use spark plugs for ignition, while diesel engines rely on compression ignition without spark plugs. 2. Emissions: The main emissions from gasoline engines are carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, and nitrogen oxides, whereas diesel engines primarily emit particulate matter and nitrogen oxides. Gasoline engines, also known as spark-ignition engines, inject gasoline into the intake manifold where it mixes with air to form a combustible mixture before entering the cylinder. The mixture is then ignited by a spark plug, causing combustion and expansion to perform work. These engines convert internal energy into kinetic energy using gasoline as fuel. Diesel engines, also referred to as Diesel engines, are compression-ignition engines that burn diesel fuel to release energy.

[ODaniel]

I've been driving for twenty years and have driven many gasoline and diesel vehicles. The most obvious difference is the starting method: gasoline cars rely on spark plugs to ignite, just like a lighter, while diesel cars compress air and ignite on their own. This affects the driving experience—diesel vehicles are noisier at startup but have stronger torque, making them great for hauling and climbing hills; gasoline cars run smoothly and quietly, ideal for daily commuting. Fuel-wise, diesel can save money when prices are low, but gas stations are fewer, while gasoline is much more convenient. In terms of maintenance, diesel vehicle parts are more durable and suitable for long-distance driving, though they sometimes require preheating in winter. My diesel SUV is very practical for hauling goods, while my gasoline compact car is smooth for picking up the kids.

[DeAna]

Common faults differ between gasoline and diesel engines during repairs. Gasoline engines often have issues with spark plugs, where carbon buildup easily leads to ignition failure. Diesel engines rely on compression ignition and don't have spark plugs, but their fuel injectors can get clogged, especially with low-quality fuel. Structurally, diesel engine pistons are more robust, with a high compression ratio of up to 18:1, allowing them to handle high-pressure environments, but they are noisier and vibrate more. Gasoline engines have a compression ratio around 10:1, running quietly and smoothly, but they are prone to overheating. In terms of fuel systems: diesel uses high-pressure direct injection, while gasoline uses low-pressure intake mixing and ignition. Maintenance-wise, diesel engines may have higher repair costs but a longer lifespan; replacing a spark plug in a gasoline engine is a minor repair, costing less.

[Sarah]

From an environmental pollution perspective, I usually pay attention to this topic. Gasoline engines emit more carbon monoxide and unburned hydrocarbons, polluting the air; diesel engines have higher particulate matter and nitrogen oxide emissions, which are particularly common in urban smog. However, diesel engines have better thermal efficiency, allowing them to travel farther on the same amount of fuel, thereby reducing some carbon dioxide emissions. In the long run, hybrid or electric vehicles are more sustainable. When choosing a car, exhaust emissions must be considered, as gasoline vehicles may face restrictions or driving bans in large cities due to policies.

[MacJohnny]

From a cost-saving perspective, I've compared vehicle ownership expenses. Diesel cars have lower fuel consumption, saving about 1 liter per 100 kilometers, making them advantageous for long highway drives; however, they cost tens of thousands more initially, and insurance might be higher. Gasoline cars save on component maintenance, such as cheaper spark plug replacements, making them suitable for short commutes. Impact of fuel price fluctuations: diesel prices are often lower than gasoline, which can partially offset costs, but economic changes require careful calculation. In the used car market, diesel vehicles hold their value well, even with high mileage they can fetch a good price. Recommendation: choose based on usage—opt for diesel if you're in sales/business, pick gasoline for household use.