Usually they have much greater longevity. Gobs of torque, very high compression, better mpg. I find that they are much easier to make power with: just basic bolt-ons, upgraded injectors, and a tune will yield considerable performance gains. My 8000 lb f250 powerstroke hauls ass after just those basic upgrades...with 230k miles on the clock. I'd much prefer a turbo-diesel over a v8.