Is it true that the life of a diesel engine far exceeds that of a gasoline engine? Why?

Question

Is it true that the life of a diesel engine far exceeds that of a gasoline engine? Why?

Answer 1

yes

Answer 2

A diesel will generally outlast a gasoline engine for one reason mentioned (they are built heavier) and the other key reason is; they don't see the rpm's that a gasoline engine does. Most diesels will never be spun faster than 3500 to 4000 rpm, where as gas engines are often spun up to 5000 or more rpm. this reduced rpm of a diesel has alot to do with reduced wear.

Answer 3

Years ago, this was true ! Now the average gas motor will match the longivity of a diesel if properly maintained.

Answer 4

Depends on your preventive maintenance habits. Or lack of.

All engines, wether they are diesel or gasoline are subject to how they are handled.

Answer 5

Diesel oil is a lubricant, gasoline is not. Diesels have much higher compression ratios (that's what makes the fuel burn) so they have to be stouter. That makes them heavier, but also more durable.

But overall the advantage is not what it was; the fuel is more heavily taxed and costs quite a bit more per gallon. Plus gas engines  are now injected (as are Diesels) instead of with carburetors, which makes them more efficient.

I have owned both but wouldn't buy a Diesel now because of fuel price.

Answer 6

They are built heavier duty b/c the compression ratio is a lot higher and they have a lot more torque at lower RPM's.