Petrol vs Diesel Cars: If you’re, in doubt about whether to purchase a petrol or a diesel vehicle we’re here to assist you. Keep reading to gain insight into the distinctions and obtain the information for making a decision. Moreover, we will explore situations where one option may be more advantageous than the other and delve into the underlying reasons. So let’s embark on this journey and determine which comes out on top, between petrol vs diesel cars!
What are Petrol and Diesel Cars?
Petrol cars and diesel cars are two categories of vehicles powered by internal combustion engines with distinct fuel preferences. Petrol cars or gasoline cars utilise a spark ignition process to burn a combination of air and petrol which aids in propelling the vehicle. These cars are renowned, for their performance and quick response. At the same time, diesel cars rely on diesel fuel.
It operates through compression ignition where the fuel-air mixture ignites under pressure which grants them enhanced fuel efficiency and torque. Diesel vehicles are often favoured for tasks that demand power, such as towing loads. However, it’s worth noting that the automotive industry is transforming with an increasing emphasis on fuel sources and propulsion technologies, like hybrid vehicles. These changes reflect both concerns surrounding technological advancements as well as the.
Below, you’ll discover the top 5 car models in India that offer both petrol and diesel engine alternatives.
| Car | Petrol | Diesel |
| Tata Altroz | From ₹ 6.59 lakh | From ₹ 8.79 lakh |
| Tata Nexon | From ₹ 8.09 lakh | From ₹ 10.99 lakh |
| Hyundai Creta | From ₹ 10.87 lakh | From ₹ 11.96 lakh |
| Kia Seltos | From ₹ 10.89 lakh | From ₹ 11.99 lakh |
| Mahindra XUV700 | From ₹ 14.02 lakh | From ₹ 14.46 lakh |
Note: The prices listed are ex-showroom prices in Kerala.
Now that you know what petrol and diesel cars are, let’s examine their differences.
Petrol vs Diesel Cars
Find out which car is best – petrol or diesel – by following the table below.
| Basis | Diesel Car | Petrol Car |
| Mileage | When it comes to mileage, diesel cars have an advantage. Their higher compression ratio allows them to extract energy from the fuel without relying on spark plugs. This results in fuel utilisation and better mileage. | The mileage of petrol cars is lower. |
| Power | Diesel vehicles depend on compression to ignite fuel resulting in torque compared to gasoline cars | Petrol-powered cars have a shorter stroke, allowing them to achieve higher revolutions per minute (RPM) and generate greater power output. |
| Car Price | The diesel variants are a bit expensive. | When it comes to affordability petrol models are generally considered budget options compared to their diesel counterparts. The price difference between the two can range from ₹1- ₹1.5 lakh at the showroom, and this discrepancy also extends to on-road prices due to the higher registration cost of diesel cars. The exact percentage difference, usually falling within the range of 1%-3%, varies based on the vehicle’s cost and the state of purchase. |
| Cost of Fuel | The price of diesel differs across different states, with the current rate being ₹97.35 per litre in Kerela as of December 2023. | The price of petrol is ₹108.48 per litre in Kerela as of December 2023. |
| Resale Value | The resale price is high. | The resale price is low. |
| Car Insurance | The high cost of diesel cars often leads to higher insurance premiums, which can increase by 10% or 15%. | A petrol car’s insurance costs are lower than a diesel car’s since the car’s price is lower. |
| Pollution | Pollutant particles and carbon dioxide are produced in greater quantities by diesel cars, which is harmful to the environment. | There is more carbon dioxide emitted by petrol cars, but fewer pollutant particles, so they are less harmful to the environment. |
| Noise | The diesel variants produce excessive noise. | There is less noise produced by diesel variants. |
If you are wondering ‘which is better between petrol vs diesel cars?’, the table above can help you decide the best variant. Furthermore, let’s see different conditions for selecting one fuel engine/type over another and vice versa.
When Should You Prefer A Diesel Car Over A Petrol Car?
It is advisable to go for a diesel car if you frequently take trips or prioritize durability.
- Fuel efficiency is an advantage of diesel engines making them a cost-effective choice, for those who travel distances.
- If you often find yourself needing to tow loads diesel vehicles might be more suitable due, to their torque capabilities.
- When it comes to long-term vehicle ownership considering the costs diesel engines can be an option if you plan on keeping the car for an extended period.
- On highways, diesel engines offer both fuel efficiency and substantial torque ensuring performance.
- In the market maintained diesel cars with mileage tend to retain their resale value.
When Should You Prefer A Petrol Car Over A Diesel Car?
It is recommended to go for a petrol car if you mostly short drive distances, within the city. Moreover, if you are on a budget a petrol car can be a cost-effective option. There are factors to consider when purchasing a petrol vehicle in India.
- City driving: Petrol engines are more suitable for city driving as they can handle acceleration and deceleration which are common in urban traffic. Additionally, petrol cars tend to operate quietly in city environments.
- Initial costs: If you have limited resources or do not plan on owning the vehicle for a period choosing a petrol car may be more economical due to its lower initial expenses compared to diesel vehicles.
- Short-term ownership: If you tend to change cars opting for petrol cars might offer advantages.
- Take into account the availability of refuelling infrastructure: If there are plenty of petrol stations around opting for a petrol car might be the choice.
Petrol vs Diesel Cars: Which is better?
Petrol-powered cars are often praised for their performance while diesel cars are known for their improved fuel efficiency and torque. However, the final decision, between these two vehicle types depends on preferences, driving habits and environmental concerns. It is important to consider these factors along, with your responsibilities and insurance coverage before making your decision.
FAQs on Petrol vs Diesel Cars
Which fuel type car is best?
Diesel cars have higher fuel efficiency (20%-25% more) than petrol cars.
Why do people typically choose petrol cars over diesel cars?
One factor is that petrol-powered vehicles generally offer cost-effectiveness. Also, petrol cars are priced lower than their diesel counterparts which makes them a more popular option. Additionally, they also require low maintenance and upkeep.
Do petrol engines last longer than diesel?
Are diesel engines more durable, than petrol engines? Diesel engines generally have a lifespan compared to petrol engines because diesel fuel has lubricating properties that reduce friction and wear on engine components. Consequently, diesel engines tend to last longer than their petrol counterparts.
