Compare estimated diesel and petrol car costs using fuel prices, mpg, purchase price and maintenance assumptions.
Diesel and petrol fuel costs use annual mileage, mpg and UK gallons converted to litres.
Total cost adds purchase price, annual fuel cost and annual maintenance over the years owned.
The result treats an option as cheaper only when the difference is at least £100.
No. Add local charges separately when comparing specific cars.
UK pump prices are usually quoted in pence per litre, so the inputs match common pricing.
Cars
Compare petrol and diesel cars for running cost, mileage and clean air zone risk.
Read comparisonDiesel engines are efficient on long steady journeys, but they cost more to buy and can be unsuitable for repeated short trips. Petrol cars are usually cheaper upfront and simpler to own for average UK mileage.
Calculator
Estimate fuel, charging and ownership costs for EV and petrol cars.
Use calculatorCalculator
Estimate hybrid and electric car running and ownership costs.
Use calculatorCalculator
Compare lease payments with buying and resale assumptions.
Use calculator