Have you gone searching for your next RV at different dealerships, finding yourself torn between a gas model and a diesel model? This is a growing issue that many campers find themselves with during the shopping process. If you are not familiar with diesel, then you may have a few questions about how they compare to each other.
Maybe gas seems like the safe choice, but you want to know more. There are existing pros and cons to both a gas RV and a diesel RV especially since the differences extend beyond the fuel pump you are using.
What is a Gas RV?
A gas RV simply runs off of standard gasoline fuel that you probably put in your vehicle. This is the standard fuel that most vehicles run off of and is pretty popular among RV models. There are some benefits to choosing the gas RV, as well as some cons.
Pros of the Gas RV
If you decide to go with the gas RV, you can expect to pay less for fuel, even though the fuel prices are on the rise. Diesel does tend to be higher on average per gallon than gas, no matter where you are in the country.
Like your vehicle, you do have some routine maintenance services that are required, but nothing compared to what you will find with a diesel RV. If you need to have your RV serviced, you are more likely to find a shop willing to service a gas RV than one willing to work on a diesel engine.
Because gasoline is more common than diesel, this makes them more affordable for those who are looking to stay within a certain budget. If you look at diesel models that are similar to a gas RV, you will see a significant price difference between the two.
Cons of the Gas RV
If you are considering moving forward with the gas RV, there are a few cons that you need to keep in mind. First, the engine life of a regular gas RV is shorter than that of a diesel engine. This should not be a shock or surprise since this is true for the average trucks and SUVs that come in either option.
You can expect to get about half or just a little better of the lifespan with your gas RV. The fuel in your RV will not last as long as diesel, so you can expect there to be more stops when traveling. This could put you paying significantly more for fuel than diesel owners because of the enhanced frequency.
Finally, keep in mind that power is lacking in a gas RV when in lower gears that are essential for navigating different environments. Their ability to perform on hills and tougher terrain makes diesel the obvious choice if those are the areas that you will be camping.
What is the Diesel RV?
If you want an RV that is run off of diesel, then you have that option when you are looking for your first or next camper. Below are both benefits of choosing the diesel RV and also cons to consider.
Pros of the Diesel RV
The power of a diesel engine in your RV is unmatched by any gas engine, especially in the lower gears. The ability to haul and manage the stress of the turns and curves in the mountains makes a diesel RV highly sought after by campers who will spend their time in these areas.
Because much of the off-grid terrain is unknown, it is best to have an RV that can handle what you may come across and be prepared. There is better fuel efficiency with diesel as compared to regular gas. While you may be paying a cheaper upfront cost for the fuel, the longevity of diesel far exceeds the regular gas.
You will be making fewer stops with a diesel RV. The routine maintenance on a diesel RV is like the maintenance on a diesel truck. You will have a few maintenance services that are required, but you can expect them to last longer than the traditional up to 5000 miles with a gas engine.
Cons of the Diesel RV
While these pros are sounding perfect, there are a few cons to consider. First is the cost of the diesel RV that you may come across. It will cost more than any of the gas models you are looking at and could exceed your budget.
When you do have your diesel RV serviced, you can expect to pay a pretty penny to the service center. This is because the parts necessary are specially ordered and also because diesel mechanics are not as common as the average mechanic.
Depending on the cost of labor, you could end up spending the same or more on maintenance than you would have on gas in just a short period.
Which is Better, Gas or Diesel?
Are you asking yourself questions now? The answer to this question is not either RV, but rather, which fits you and your personal plans for your RV lifestyle. If you are planning to spend a lot of time on beaches cruising on flat land and making small treks from your home, maybe the gas RV is the right option for you.
You need to keep in mind that both RV types are great, and they come with the interior features that many campers have come to love.
If you are more adventurous and want to take on the different areas throughout the country, then the diesel RV may be what you need. No matter which RV you decide to choose for your family, you have an understanding of the differences between these two RV types and what you can expect once you make a purchase on the RV, either way.