Guide
Gas vs Diesel Motorhome: Key Differences, By the Numbers
Gas motorhomes usually cost less to buy and are simpler to service; diesel motorhomes offer more torque, higher towing capacity and, in rear-engine diesel pushers, a quieter cab and air-ride suspension. In our catalog we track 281 gas and 299 diesel motorhomes with published fuel type.
| Gas | Diesel | |
|---|---|---|
| Models in our catalog | 281 (17 makers) | 299 (21 makers) |
| Typical length | 30′ 2″ | 35′ 7″ |
| Length range | 17′ 9″–40′ 1″ | 19′ 5″–45′ |
| Typical height | 11′ 4″ | 12′ 8″ |
| Typical dry weight | 20,750 lb | 32,500 lb |
| Typical GVWR | 14,500 lb | 26,000 lb |
| Typical sleeping capacity | 4 | 4 |
| Typical fresh / gray / black tanks | 44 / 39 / 36 gal | 94 / 51 / 45 gal |
| Typical manufacturer price | $176,000 | $334,000 |
| Median dealer discount off sticker | 24% | 13% |
Typical = median of published manufacturer specs (newest model year per model). Prices are manufacturer starting or MSRP figures where verified (often base prices); dealer discounts compare current listings with each listing’s own sticker MSRP.
Key differences
Power and towing
Diesels produce more torque for climbing grades and usually have higher tow ratings, which matters if you tow a car or trailer. Gas engines are lighter and rev higher.
Comfort
Rear-engine diesel pushers keep engine noise behind you and often have air-ride suspension. Front-engine gas coaches are louder in the cab.
Maintenance
Diesel service (oil, fuel filters, diesel exhaust fluid) usually costs more per visit, and not every shop works on large diesels. Gas chassis are widely serviced.
Price
Diesel motorhomes generally cost more to buy. Typical verified manufacturer prices in our catalog: $176,000 for gas and $334,000 for diesel.
Size
Diesel Class As tend to be the longest coaches; in our catalog the typical gas motorhome is 30′ 2″ and the typical diesel is 35′ 7″. Many camper vans and smaller Class Cs are diesel too, on Mercedes-Benz chassis.
Gas: pros & cons
Pros
- Lower purchase price
- Widely available, simpler service
- Lighter chassis
Cons
- Less torque on long grades
- Usually lower towing capacity
- Front-engine noise in the cab
Diesel: pros & cons
Pros
- More torque and towing capacity
- Quieter ride in diesel pushers, often with air suspension
- Built for high mileage
Cons
- Higher purchase price
- Costlier maintenance and fewer service shops
- Diesel exhaust fluid and more complex emissions systems
Which should you choose?
Choose a gas if…
- You travel occasionally and want to spend less up front
- You don’t plan heavy towing
- You want easy service almost anywhere
Choose a diesel if…
- You travel a lot or full-time
- You tow a car or trailer or drive mountain routes
- You want the quietest, smoothest ride
A typical example of each
Common questions
Is a diesel motorhome worth it?
It depends on how much you travel and tow. Diesels cost more to buy and maintain but offer more power, towing capacity and comfort, which matters most for frequent long trips.
Are diesel motorhomes longer?
In our catalog the typical diesel motorhome is 35′ 7″ long versus 30′ 2″ for gas, because many diesels are large Class A pushers.
What is a diesel pusher?
A Class A motorhome with the diesel engine in the rear, which keeps the cab quieter and usually comes with more torque and air-ride suspension.
More RV comparison guides
Catalog figures update automatically as models are added: currently 281 gas motorhomes and 299 diesel motorhomes from manufacturer specifications.