Gas vs. Diesel RV: Which Motorhome Is Really Better?

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Updated October 8, 2025

One of the most common questions Susan and I get when people find out we own two motorhomes is: “So which is better — gas or diesel?”

It’s a fair question and one that’s been debated at campgrounds and RV shows since the 1970s. And while I’ll admit that diesel is almost always better, the real question is… is it $150,000 better than a gasser?

After years on the road, testing both, and talking to owners across the country, here’s what we’ve learned about the gas vs. diesel motorhome debate.

Gas vs. Diesel RVs: The Basics

You’ll find gas and diesel engines across all motorhome classes — A, B, and C. Most smaller rigs, like camper vans and compact Class As, use gas engines. Larger luxury coaches tend to be diesel pushers.

In short, gas RVs are more affordable, easier to service, and less intimidating to drive. Diesel RVs offer more power, longer lifespan, and a smoother ride, but they come with a higher cost.

For most RVers, it comes down to how often you travel and how long you plan to keep your rig.

Engine Lifespan and Longevity

Here’s where diesel really shines.

A gas RV engine typically lasts about 200,000 miles with good maintenance. That’s still decades of travel for most part-timers.

But diesel engines? They’re built for half a million miles or more. The same Cummins and Freightliner engines found in big diesel pushers are used in commercial trucks designed to run cross-country every day.

When we first started shopping for our Class A, I remember looking at a used diesel pusher with 60,000 miles and the salesman said, “That engine’s just getting broken in.” He wasn’t exaggerating.

If you plan to RV full-time or rack up the miles, a diesel’s longevity is a major plus.

Fuel Efficiency and Capacity

Diesel motorhomes get slightly better mileage — usually 7–13 mpg, compared to 6–10 mpg for gas rigs.

That doesn’t sound like much, but when you’re hauling 40 feet of home down the highway, every extra mile per gallon adds up. Diesel tanks also hold more — typically 100–200 gallons compared to 80 gallons for gas.

Still, diesel fuel often costs more per gallon, and most RVers find the difference in overall trip costs to be modest unless they’re driving thousands of miles each year.

Maintenance and Service Costs

This is where gas motorhomes win — hands down.

A typical oil change on our gas Class A costs around $150–$200, while the same service on a diesel can run $400–$450 or more. Parts and labor for diesel repairs are also higher, and not every mechanic can service them.

That said, diesel engines generally need less frequent maintenance and experience fewer breakdowns. When they do need work, it’s expensive — but rare.

I always tell people: if you’re handy and like to do your own oil changes and tune-ups, gas is easier and cheaper to live with.

Insurance and Ownership Costs

Insurance costs mirror the purchase price. Diesel motorhomes are simply more expensive to insure because they’re higher in value and more complex to repair.

Gas RVs are cheaper to buy, cheaper to maintain, and cheaper to insure. If you’re a weekend warrior or seasonal traveler, that difference can add up to thousands of dollars saved every year.

Ride Comfort and Performance

Here’s the honest truth — you feel the difference behind the wheel.

Diesel pushers ride on heavy-duty air suspension systems that make long trips smooth and quiet. They have more torque, so they handle mountain grades and towing with ease.

Our diesel motorhome can climb the Rockies without breaking a sweat, while our gas Class C sometimes feels like it’s working overtime on steep grades.

Still, modern gas engines — like Ford’s 7.3L V8 — have improved a lot. If you mostly travel east of the Mississippi or stick to flatter routes, a gasser can handle the job just fine.

The Myths About Diesel RVs

There’s a lot of outdated information floating around, so let’s clear up a few myths.

“Diesel engines are dirty.” Not anymore. Modern diesel engines burn much cleaner thanks to DEF (Diesel Exhaust Fluid) systems.

“Diesel RVs are loud.” Technology has changed that too. New diesel pushers are whisper quiet inside.

“Gas RVs are faster.” True on paper, but the difference is minimal. Most of us aren’t drag racing our motorhomes!

The bottom line: both gas and diesel RVs today are far cleaner, quieter, and more efficient than they were even a decade ago.

Gas vs. Diesel Motorhome Comparison (Condensed)

Feature	Gas Motorhome	Diesel Motorhome
Purchase Price	Lower ($100K–$200K)	Higher ($250K–$600K+)
Fuel Economy	6–10 mpg	7–13 mpg
Maintenance Cost	Lower	Higher
Engine Lifespan	~200,000 miles	500,000+ miles
Ride Quality	Louder, rougher	Smoother, quieter
Towing Power	Moderate	Excellent
Insurance	Lower	Higher
Resale Value	Moderate	Strong

Our Take: Is Diesel Really Worth It?

After driving both, Susan and I agree — diesel is better, no question. The torque, smooth ride, and durability are unmatched.

But here’s the catch: unless you’re traveling full-time or keeping your coach for decades, diesel may not be $150,000 better.

If you’re buying your first motorhome, or you’re more of a weekend or seasonal traveler, a gas-powered RV gives you plenty of comfort and convenience for far less money.

However, if you love long road trips, plan to tow heavy, or want that ultra-smooth “floating down the highway” experience — the diesel pusher is worth every penny.

Final Thoughts

At the end of the day, both gas and diesel motorhomes can deliver incredible adventures. The right choice comes down to how you camp, how far you travel, and how long you plan to keep your rig.

When someone asks me, “Which should I buy?” my answer is simple:
Diesel is always better — but not always $150,000 better.

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Related Reading:

1️⃣ Class A vs Class C Motorhome and How to Choose

2️⃣ Fifth Wheel vs Class A Motorhome – Pros and Cons to Help You Choose

3️⃣ 8 Small Class A RVs Under 30 Feet

4️⃣ Where to Find the Best Class A Motorhome Rental

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