When it’s time to buy a car, one big question comes up:
Should I get a petrol, diesel, or electric car?
Each type of car has its good and bad points. The best one for you depends on how far you drive, where you live, how much you want to spend, and how you care about the environment.
In this blog, we’ll help you understand the difference between petrol, diesel, and electric cars. We’ll also show you how to stay safe by checking the car’s history using links like VIN Check, REVS Check, and $2 PPSR Check.
Petrol Cars
What Is It?
Petrol cars run on regular petrol fuel. You fill up at a service station and drive off.
Pros
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Easy to find fuel: Petrol stations are everywhere in Australia.
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Cheaper to buy: Petrol cars are often cheaper than diesel or electric.
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Simple to service: Mechanics know petrol engines well.
Cons
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More fuel use: Petrol engines can use more fuel than diesel.
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Not eco-friendly: Petrol gives off carbon, which adds to pollution.
Best For:
City drivers, short trips, and people who don’t want to spend too much upfront.
Diesel Cars
What Is It?
Diesel cars use a different kind of fuel. They are often used for long drives or towing.
Pros
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Fuel lasts longer: Diesel engines use less fuel over long trips.
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Great for towing: Good for boats, trailers, or caravans.
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Tough engines: Diesel engines can last a long time.
Cons
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More expensive to buy: Diesel cars often cost more.
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Servicing can cost more: Diesel parts and filters can be pricey.
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Not great for short drives: Diesel engines don’t like lots of short trips.
Best For:
People who drive long distances or need a work car that can tow or carry heavy loads.
Electric Cars (EVs)
What Is It?
Electric cars run on batteries, not petrol or diesel. You plug them in to charge.
Pros
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No petrol needed: Cheaper to charge than filling a tank.
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Good for the planet: No tailpipe pollution.
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Quiet and smooth: Very quiet to drive with no engine noise.
Cons
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More expensive upfront: EVs can cost more to buy.
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Charging stations: You’ll need to find places to charge, though more are popping up in Australia.
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Battery life: Batteries can wear out over time.
Best For:
Eco-friendly drivers, city folks, and those with charging points at home or work.
Compare Petrol, Diesel, and Electric
| Feature | Petrol | Diesel | Electric |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cost to buy | Low | Medium | High |
| Cost to run | Medium | Low (for long trips) | Very Low |
| Eco-friendly | No | No | Yes |
| Best for | Short trips | Long trips/towing | City/eco drivers |
How to Choose What’s Right for You
Ask yourself these questions:
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How far do I drive each week?
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Do I travel on highways or just in the city?
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Do I care about helping the environment?
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Do I have space to charge an electric car at home?
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How much do I want to spend now vs later?
Everyone’s needs are different. A tradie doing long drives might pick diesel. A student driving short distances might go with a small petrol car. A city worker who wants to go green might love an electric car.
New or Second-Hand?
Electric cars are still new, so they cost more. If you're thinking of a second-hand car, you might find a better deal with petrol or diesel.
Not sure if you should buy from a dealer or a private seller? This guide will help:
Dealer vs Private Seller – Which Is Better for Used Cars?
Do These Checks Before You Buy
Whether you choose petrol, diesel, or electric, always check the car’s background:
Make sure the car hasn’t been stolen, written off, or has a fake identity.
This shows if the car still has money owing. If it does, you could lose it!
This gives you a full car history for just $2 — cheap peace of mind!
Watch Out for Damaged Cars
Some second-hand cars look great outside but are damaged inside. Always check if the car has been in a flood or serious crash.
Read this guide to learn more:
How to Spot a Written-Off or Flood-Damaged Car
When to Buy
Looking to save even more money? Know the best time to shop for a car. You can often get a better deal at the end of the year or end of the month.
Best Time of Year to Buy a Second-Hand Car in Australia
Final Thoughts
Choosing between petrol, diesel, or electric depends on your lifestyle. If you want a simple, cheap car for city trips, petrol is good. If you drive a lot or need to tow things, diesel is better. If you want to save the planet and spend less over time, an electric car is the way to go.
Whatever you pick, don’t forget to do your VIN Check, REVS Check, and PPSR Check. A few dollars now can save you thousands later.
Happy driving, mate!
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