If you’re considering an RV adventure, choosing between diesel and gas models can be tricky. Each type has its own perks and drawbacks, but many seasoned travelers often prefer diesel-powered RVs for several compelling reasons that enhance the travel experience.
When we ran our poll asking our readers if they preferred Gas or Diesel Rv’s, Diesel ended up winning by a slight margin. We wrote about the benefits of Gas powered RV’s, but in this article we are going to go over why Diesel won the poll and the benefits.
One of the main benefits of diesel RVs is their fuel efficiency, making them a popular choice for long road trips. This efficiency often leads to fewer stops at gas stations, giving you more time to enjoy the open road. Additionally, diesel engines are generally known for their durability and power, which can be crucial for tackling varied terrains on your journeys.
Exploring these aspects might reveal why diesel-powered options are often seen as a better investment for the long haul, especially when you prioritize road performance and maintenance. This article aims to help you weigh these factors and decide if a diesel-powered RV is the better choice for your travels.
1) Better Fuel Efficiency
When you’re planning those long road trips, fuel efficiency becomes a big deal for your RV adventures. Diesel RVs often shine here. They generally provide better mileage than gas-powered ones, which means you get more travel time between pit stops.
The magic behind diesel engines lies in their efficiency at converting fuel into energy. It’s no wonder diesel motorhomes are usually around 15-20% more fuel-efficient than their gas counterparts. More miles per gallon can translate to significant savings over time.
Diesel fuel itself has a higher energy content than gasoline. This higher thermal energy allows diesel engines to burn less fuel to achieve the same power output, letting you travel further on each tank. So, you can focus more on the road and less on refueling.
2) Longer Engine Life
When it comes to engine longevity, diesel engines have the upper hand. These engines are built to withstand longer and heavier use, often surpassing the lifespan of gas engines by a significant margin.
Diesel RV engines can clock upward of 500,000 miles with proper maintenance. This is due to their robust construction and design tailored for long-distance travel and heavy loads.
In contrast, gas engines in RVs typically last around 200,000 miles. Although regular care can extend their life, they generally don’t match the durability of diesel engines.
The engineering in diesel engines reduces the stress on parts during operation. This results in less wear and tear over time. Diesel engines often require fewer major repairs, offering peace of mind for long road trips.
Ultimately, if longevity is a priority for your RV, diesel engines offer a clear advantage. Investing in a diesel RV means focusing on enjoying the journey rather than worrying about mechanical breakdowns.
3. Higher Torque for Towing
When you’re hitting the road with your RV, having higher torque makes a difference in towing. Diesel engines excel at offering more torque compared to gas engines.
This means your RV can handle heavier loads with less struggle. Imagine pulling those tough hills without breaking a sweat.
Diesel engines generate torque at lower RPMs. This ability gives you a smoother driving experience, whether it’s on highways or rugged terrains. You won’t need to rev the engine as high, which makes driving less stressful.
Over long journeys, this torque advantage becomes more apparent, especially when you’re traveling through mountainous areas or towing heavy equipment. The increased pulling power of diesel engines allows for more relaxed driving.
By choosing a diesel RV, you ensure reliable towing performance, easing the challenge of transporting your gear and loved ones.
4) More Resale Value
When it comes to getting more bang for your buck, diesel RVs tend to have a better resale value compared to gas-powered ones. This can make a huge difference when it comes time to sell or trade in your vehicle.
Diesel engines are known for their durability and longevity. This makes them particularly attractive to buyers who are looking for a reliable vehicle that will last a long time.
Another factor is that diesel RVs typically offer better fuel efficiency. Over time, this can lead to savings, which can be appealing to future buyers.
The demand for diesel RVs often remains high in the market. This means you could potentially sell your RV for closer to what you originally paid compared to a gasoline-powered one.
All these factors combined make diesel RVs a smart choice if resale value is a priority for you. It gives you more options and a potential financial edge when it’s time for an upgrade.
5) Superior Performance in High Altitude
When you’re cruising through the mountains in your RV, altitude can really put your vehicle to the test. Diesel engines usually handle these challenges better than their gas-powered counterparts. This is particularly true at elevations where the air gets thinner, causing gas engines to lose more power than diesel ones.
One of the key reasons for this superior performance is the turbocharging common in diesel engines. Turbocharged diesels maintain more power at high altitudes because the turbocharger pumps more air into the engine, combating the effects of thinner air. You’re less likely to feel a drop in performance until you hit really high elevations.
Additionally, diesel engines are generally more efficient, which also helps when you’re dealing with altitude. So if your adventures often take you up into the mountains, a diesel RV might just be your best bet for a smoother, more reliable ride.
