Why is Europe so fond of diesels?

[David Head]

1. Gas prices...
2. mpg
3. New TDIs have more power and torque than a comparably sized engine 
and average about 30% better mileage.
4. A Jetta TDI will out accelerate a 1.8T up to about 50mph - where you 
spend most of your time. And it will knock down 50mpg...

Jon R Tetzloff wrote:

> Sorry, but I gotta ask.   Why the diesel craze?
> I was brought up in the US and 'taught' that diesels
> make a horrible clattering racket, stink, pollute, get way
> lower power per cubic inch than a gasoline engine,
> and start worth crap in the cold.
> I realize that modern diesels are probably clean
> and quiet, etc, yet you still pretty much couldn't give
> away a diesel car in the US.
> Is the popularity in Europe a fuel cost thing, a
> mechanical simplicity thing, engine longevity,
> or what?
> I'm not trying to take sides or start any arguments, I am
> just curious why there's such a difference between
> the US and Europe here.
> thanks
> Jon
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