This or That: Diesel Cars vs. Hybrid Cars
Surprise! When it comes to the environment, diesel and hybrid cars are actually more evenly matched then you might think. Sure, we've all seen the black smoke diesel tractor-trailers spew (and yes, that smog IS bad for the environment – it contains oxides, carbon dioxide and nitrogen). But diesel engines are surprisingly fuel efficient (much more so than a gasoline engine). In fact, many diesel cars get up to 50 miles per gallon. And, generally speaking, diesel fuel is cheaper than regular gasoline (if a bit more difficult to find). Technological improvements over the last 20 years have helped make the diesel engine more efficient. Car manufactures have also developed quieter engines. Today, most drivers can barely hear the difference between diesel and gasoline cars.
Even so, hybrids still edge out the competition.
The most efficient car on the road is the Toyota Prius. The Prius gets about 60 mpg on the highway. Hybrids also released less pollution and carbon dioxide and are quieter than diesels. Hybrids do have one drawback: replacement batteries are expensive ($3000). In addition to your wallet, these expensive batteries could hurt your hybrid's re-sale value. But the money you'll save on gas could just make up the difference.
So, when it comes to the environment, hybrids are a bit better than diesel automobiles. Just don't overlook the hidden high replacement cost of batteries.
Sources:
"The Pros and Cons of Going Diesel." Bankrate.Com.
http://www.bankrate.com/brm/news/auto/20030804a1.asp
Don't Be Fueled: Gas vs. Diesel vs. Hybrid Power. MSN Autos.
http://autos.msn.com/advice/article.aspx?contentid=4022630
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