Gasoline and diesel fuel both provide you with the energy your vehicle needs to keep you on the road for a long time. The vehicle's engine uses chemical energy that turns into mechanical energy by burning and releasing it as heat. While both types of fuel are designed to do this, they are not interchangeable. Gas and diesel work at different capacities and cost different prices. Review the guide below to know the contrasts between diesel and gas and what they do. 

What Are the Differences Between Diesel and Gas?

1. Engine Life Span

Diesel and gas engines both offer hundreds of thousands of miles in longevity. In recent years, gas engines have become capable of lasting over 200,000 miles before they need to be replaced or reconditioned. This is an impressive upgrade from previous models that could only last 100,000 miles. 

However, diesel engines run for over 1,000,000 miles if maintained carefully. Although both use internal combustion with their fuel, diesel engines lack spark plugs and use compression to create heat. This puts less pressure on the engine itself, which allows it to last longer.

2. Fuel Efficiency

Diesel fuel is much thicker and heavier, so it takes far longer to evaporate. And while gas uses the same amount of energy as diesel, diesel uses less fuel to produce the same effects. Overall, this results in diesel operating at 20% more fuel efficiency than gasoline.  

Diesel fuel also has biodiesel, which is a unique alternative that can be substituted in place of diesel. While diesel is made from petroleum, biodiesel is a biofuel that can come from other renewable liquids like animal fat, algae, and vegetable oil. With professional help, this means it’s possible to convert a diesel engine to use environmentally friendly biodiesel.

3. Price Differences 

Per gallon, diesel fuel costs anywhere between 25 cents to a full dollar more than gasoline. This is because there is more demand for gas, so gas prices are lowered to provide a good supply. Also, while diesel products need less overall maintenance than gas products, the cost of a diesel repair can be more expensive than gas because diesel products need extra labor and occasional replacements.  Lastly, taxes on a gallon diesel fuel differ by State, however are as much as $.25-$.35/gallon higher than gasoline.   

When you need dependable fuel for your vehicle, rely on Bradigan’s Incorporated in Kittanning, PA. Since 1952, this company has serviced Armstrong and its surrounding counties with fuel deliveries and petroleum and heating oil services, and they offer lubricants for a wide variety of machines. They are available to assist you 24/7. For more information, visit their website or call (724) 548-7654.