Actually the way we and the POs of our cars drive these old, SLUGgish machines would be considered abuse to a gas engine. We let them get into the upper RPM range for extended periods, and we also give them lets of throttle from stops. But for these engines it's good for them. Driving a diesel like it's a gasser is abuse!
Also diesels are built a lot heavier duty due to the higher compression ratios and power. So they are built tough naturally.