There are several types of diesel engines for an RV. Class B and Class C RVs will have the same engines found in many large pickup trucks. Class A diesel engines are large custom engines built by Caterpillar and Cummins.
Gas-powered RVs have V8 or V10 engines. They are less powerful than diesel engines. Ford, Dodge and Chevrolet make gas engines for RVs.
Diesel-powered RVs can tow heavier loads than a gas-powered RV. This is especially important in class A and large class C RVs as they frequently tow a smaller vehicle behind them.
Gas-powered RVs do not handle steep, mountainous terrain as well as diesel-powered RVs. On level terrain, the gas-powered RV gets better gas mileage.
Purchase price of a diesel-powered RV is greater than the price of a gas-powered RV. The cost per gallon of diesel fuel is less than the cost per gallon of gasoline. The total cost to purchase and operate the RV should be considered.
