Below are the numbers I generated to compare 1.4 Std and 1.4 COD running costs over 3 years as a difference to the costs for the diesel. I Assumed 35% residual increase against the additional engine costs (+£850 for COD and +£2300 relative to the 1.4 std petrol). Assumed a 10p/l difference in fuel costs diesel v petrol.
Based on these calculations you are saving over all up to 12k annual mileage. 20k+ it makes sense, which really everyone knows. I only do 8k/year and having driven all 3 the COD was the one for me, despite the 1.4 being more cost effective.
These costs are over 3 years, so when you are spending £25k+ on a car the numbers are all pretty marginal compared to purchase price and depreciation.
I therefore agree with previous comments that when buying at this price level you choose the car you like to drive rather than to save a small amount of monthly running costs - if you are an average mileage driver the extra purchase cost is a greater impact.
My personal preference was COD, Diesel then standard. The Diesel has a wider power/torque band to my current 2.2 Civic diesel which meant it felt less powerful, but was more petrol like - up to around 4k revs (Civic peaks around 3k).
The COD was much more fun and having more refined revs to play with makes for a good driving compromise.
I was pretty impressed with the 1.4 engine and would happily have taken any of them. The £2300 premium for the diesel was a big factor for me so quickly got eliminated based on my mileage and looking for a change.
Miles | MPG | 8K | 12K | 15K | 20K | 40K |
1.4 Std | 40 | £635 | £205 | -£120 | -£650 | -£2800 |
| | | | | | |
1.4 COD | 45 | £495 | £265 | -£100 | -£185 | -£1300 |
| | | | | | |
2.0(150) DTI | 53 | - | - | - | - | - |