Source: http://blog.rvtrader.com/2015/08/diesel-vs-gas-which-one-should-you.html
Pros of owning a Gas RV
- If you’re looking to travel only once in a while, then a smaller gas engine RV (35 feet or smaller) could make more sense.
- Since service and fuel stations are common, gas is much more accessible and affordable than diesel.
- Gas engines are also more resistant to cold weather than diesel engines.
- They have higher RPMs (about 6000 RPMs), allowing for a smoother, quieter ride with faster acceleration.
Cons of owning a Gas RV
- Gasoline has a strong odor and a short shelf life due to evaporation.
- Gas engines have weaker towing power compared to diesel equivalents.
Pros of owning a Diesel RV
- RVs with diesel engines are an excellent choice if you are looking to travel frequently and for longer periods of time.
- They tend to offer more efficient fuel consumption, meaning less frequent refills at the gas pump.
- Diesel engines usually have better torque. This means improved towing capability, an important factor if floor space is a priority.
- If well maintained, diesel engines have a longer life than gasoline ones and can still perform reliably after extensive mileage. This means diesel RVs often retain a higher resell value after a few years.
Cons of owning a Diesel RV
- At a range of $2.00 to $3.50 per gallon, diesel fuel often costs more at the pump. However, this is off-set by their superior fuel economy.
- RVs with diesel engines have lower RPMs than those with gas engines meaning slower acceleration and lower top speeds.
On a forum I read:
Both gas and diesel motorhomes work real well. Both can tow a vehicle. Either one can do the job.
Diesels cost more initially but last longer and have a better resale value, so cost is a wash.
Diesels get better gas mileage but diesel cost more than gas so that is a wash.
Diesels cost more to do a maintenance job but need less maintenance so that is a wash.
It really comes down to a matter of do you want the engine sitting next to you or 35 feet away from you.
