Like any detailed analysis, so great start above. Continue to build on that. I did a very extensive breakeven analysis. There is one MAJOR piece missing from the analysis above, and that is higher retained value, less depreciation, in other words better residuals.
In fact, residuals alone can help one achieve breakeven (how long to recover higher up front engine price) in less than a year! In fact, in my analysis that I'll share below, I built a "stack the deck in favor of the Hemi" version of my business case, and this pushed the breakeven in years from 0-2 to 2.9. Granted the diesel to gas price ratio changed over last couple months I did the analysis, but this has less impact the omitting residuals.
I even factored in rebates that a Hemi might get that he diesel doesn't. Although if one plans ahead, and ordered a truck, one can get well below Invoice price like I did. If you buy off the lot, yes, you will get screwed because it's in high demand.
There is a smaller population where residuals don't matter, those who drive the truck 300,000 miles and never sell, but most do trade out after a number of years.
For me, the breakeven doesn't matter, I don't care what gas prices are, I only buy Diesel engines period. The inly gas engine I would buy in the future is a corvette or porche; everyday cars I get diesel because the technology is so good right now.
Here is the business case thread. Be sure to read through to my later postings where I try different versions. And, you will be surprised that under certain years of ownership, the Pentastar is more expensive to own and operate than the Hemi. The sole reason.... worse residuals (depreciates faster).