Diesel vs. Gas Trucks: Which is Right for You?

When shopping for a new pickup, Ram alone offers you plenty of options. One decision you will need to make is whether you want a diesel or a gasoline-powered truck. Because of this, you may be weighing diesel vs. gas trucks pros and cons. Fortunately, the team at Opelika Ford Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram can help you make the right choice.

Diesel vs. Gas Trucks Pros and Cons

Why Should I Choose a Diesel Truck? 

• Torque & Towing – If towing power is a top priority, diesel trucks often generate considerably more torque and can tow heavier trailers than similar gas-powered models. Because of this, many drivers in the Columbus, GA and Auburn areas choose diesel options for work trucks and transport vehicles.

• Fuel Economy – When it comes to fuel economy, you can usually expect better efficiency ratings from a diesel truck. However, keep in mind that diesel fuel can be a bit more expensive.

• Longevity – Because diesel engines are designed using simpler construction and stronger engine blocks, they usually last significantly longer than gas engines. 

Why Should I Choose a Gas Truck?

• Acceleration & Horsepower – While diesel engines usually deliver more torque, you can typically expect a higher horsepower output and better acceleration from a gas-powered truck. These pickups are generally better at getting up to speed and passing other cars when traveling at highway speeds in Phenix City. 

• More Fueling Stations – Remember that not all gas stations offer diesel fuel, so if you drive a diesel-powered vehicle, you may have to pay more attention to where you can fill up your vehicle next. 

• Lower Maintenance Costs – It’s a common misconception that the simpler design of the diesel engine makes it easier to maintain and repair. In fact, the opposite is usually true because engines employ heavy-duty and sometimes hard-to-find parts. This can lead to more expensive service appointments. 

Diesel vs. Gas Truck: Technical Specifications

Why do gas and diesel trucks differ in several key areas that are important to Salem drivers? Let’s take a closer look at how these two options work:

• While there are numerous differences between gas and diesel engines, both are internal combustion engines. This means that fuel is turned into energy inside the engine itself. 
• Gas trucks usually compress air and fuel at a ratio of approximately 10:1. Diesel trucks usually do not need spark plugs because they compress their own air/fuel mixture at a rate between 15:1 and 25:1, leading to a much hotter cylinder. 
• One determining factor when it comes to the efficiency of an engine is the relative difference between its maximum hot and cold temperatures. There is a smaller difference in engines that have a higher compression ratio, which is why diesel trucks are usually more efficient. 

Let’s take a closer look at the engine specs for the gasoline and diesel engines found throughout the 2020 RAM 1500 lineup as an example: 

• 5.7L HEMI V8 Engine with eTorque: 395 hp, 410 lb-ft of torque, and 12,750 lbs. of towing power. 
• 5.7L HEMI V8 Engine: 395 hp, 410 lb-ft of torque, and 11,610 lbs. of towing power. 
• 3.6L Pentastar V6 Engine with eTorque: 305 hp, 269 lb-ft of torque, and 7,730 lbs. of towing power.
• 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 Engine: 260 hp, 480 lb-ft of torque, and 12,560 lbs. of towing power. 

Compare a Diesel vs. Gas Truck in Opelika

At Opelika Ford Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram, you will find both gas and diesel trucks throughout our inventory. The best way to see which option is right for you is by setting up a test drive. Contact us today for more information.