When buying a new vehicle, there are several things to take into account that it is easy to forget to take into account an important decision. Do you plan on a gas-powered vehicle or a diesel-powered one?

Modern diesel automobiles are almost completely indistinguishable from their petrol driven twins. And they don't blow smoke like they did in the old days. These cars diesel gas mileage is almost always higher and modern engine improvements give you a more powerful and comfortable ride.

The modern diesel engine has been given a major makeover, and, with the correct servicing over the years, it will provide you with years of hassle-free driving, while also giving higher miles per gallon and per dollar.

Interestingly enough, European countries are generally more fuel economy conscious than the US. Most European cars are diesel driven, not gasoline driven. An in terms of fuel economy, diesel almost always beats petrol.

One reason why diesel has not enjoyed mainstream popularity in north America is that the majority of vehicles manufactured in Europe would never pass strict United States emissions specifications. But by not using diesel engines like European motorists, we are giving up on fuel savings we would or could have had with diesel. What's more, its at a time when we're all hurting for fuel. We need cars like this.

Diesel engines manage 40% more miles per gallon than gasoline-powered. And though diesel might cost a bit more at the gas station, those diesel gallons drive you much further. So having a car with a diesel engine will really save you money.

While gas powered motor cars can rarely manage 40 mpg or more, some diesel cars, such as the miniscule Smart ForFour, manage close to 70 mpg. The ForFour has a turbocharged 3-cylinder engine and has passed the tough US fume emissions laws. It is being sold in the United States right now by Daimler Chrysler.

However, the ForFour is not the all time champ for diesel fuel efficiency. The European-made Lupo could wring out an amazing 78 miles per gallon. Regrettably, the Lupo ended production in 2005.

Anyhow, the mileage statistics prove it, diesel gas mileage gives you more miles per dollar than gasoline mileage can. Check it out for yourself.