If you’re looking for a new car, you may feel overwhelmed by the number of options out there. There are a lot of different features and even engines out there. Buying a car takes more than looking for a new Ford for sale and then forking over the cash; it can involve a lot of research.
So, to make the process easier, here are the types of car systems available and the pros and cons of each.
What Types of Vehicles Are Available?
There are four main types of vehicles widely available: gas, diesel, hybrid, and electric.
Gas Engines
Gas engines are internal combustion engines that burn gasoline to run. They are the most classic car to own, and modern gas engines are very efficient.
Pros
Gas engine vehicles are the least expensive to purchase, make that delightful revving noise, and are the most widespread car type. Depending on the make and model of the car, they can be very efficient and get you good gas mileage. There are also options for used cars or trucks.
Cons
Gas cars produce greenhouse gases. These vehicles also depreciate faster than other types of cars. Another con to gas cars is that gas prices are constantly changing, so you never know how much you will have to spend to go where you need to.
Diesel Engines
Diesel engines also use internal combustion, but they run on diesel fuel. Diesel fuel is denser than gasoline and contains around 15% more energy per gallon.
Pros
Diesel cars depreciate slower than gasoline vehicles because their engines are longer-lasting. They are also more efficient, and though diesel fuel is more expensive, its energy value means you spend less in the long run. It can also power larger vehicles more efficiently.
Cons
Diesel vehicles usually have to pay more insurance because they are more expensive to repair. Fuel prices are volatile.
Hybrid Engines
Hybrid cars use an internal combustion engine and an electric motor. The gas engine gets the car going and moves the electric engine to generate more power and store it in a battery. This provides extra power to the vehicle, so the gas engine usually is smaller than in fully gas-powered cars.
Pros
These engines are much more fuel efficient and clean to run. They retain their value much longer than other cars. Unlike fully electric vehicles, they have no limits as to how far you can drive in one.
Cons
They are more expensive than gasoline vehicles and may require special maintenance. They also have less pull power because they are partially electric.
Electric Engines
These have no internal combustion engine and use only an electric motor. They contain large battery packs to store energy. They must be plugged in and charged.
Pros
Electric engines produce zero emissions and are extremely quiet. They have instant acceleration and retain their value better than any other type of car.
Cons
These tend to be expensive and have a limited range of how far you can drive before you have to recharge. In addition, charging points are still few and far between, and electricity is still created using fossil fuels in many parts of the world.
Choosing the Right Car for You
The car you choose depends on your preference, your budget, and how you feel about being green. Now that you know your options, you can choose the right one for you.
