What factor contributes to older vehicles having higher emission levels?

Older vehicles typically have less efficient emissions systems, which means they are not able to effectively reduce harmful emissions such as carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, and unburned hydrocarbons. This is largely due to the technological advancements in emission control systems that have been developed over the years.

For example, newer vehicles are designed with advanced catalytic converters and sophisticated computer-controlled fuel injection systems that optimize combustion and minimize emissions. In contrast, older models may use outdated technologies that do not achieve the same level of efficiency in controlling emissions, leading to higher levels of pollutants being released into the atmosphere.

Additionally, the materials and designs of older emissions systems may degrade over time, further exacerbating emissions issues. In many cases, older vehicles were manufactured before stringent emissions regulations were put in place, resulting in naturally less efficient emissions systems compared to modern standards. Understanding this progression in technology is key to recognizing why older vehicles contribute significantly more to emissions than newer models.