This study focused on the evaluation and testing of safflower seed oil methyl ester as a diesel fuel alternative. The kinematic viscosity and ASTM fuel properties of the methyl ester fuel were within the limits specified for Grade No.2-D diesel fuel. Engine tests were performed on a four-cylinder, direct-injection Cf engine using methyl ester and reference diesel fuel; engine performance and exhaust emission characteristics were determined. Safflower seed oil methyl ester revealed similar engine performance characteristics to the reference Grade No.2-D diesel fuel. Lower CO and HC emissions were obtained when methyl ester was used, and the negligible amount of sulfur content was an additional advantage of methyl ester over diesel fuel.