8.1 vs 6.0

[ebod]

I'm looking to get a new 2500 Suburban.  I will use it mainly as a daily driver, but sometimes for some light towing/hauling (e.g., a couple of dirt bikes on a small open utility trailer).

 

I am debating between getting the 8.1L and the 6.0L.  Because my towing is so light (my wife's current 1500 5.3L 'burban can handle it no problem), I want to get the best daily driver.  Is the 8.1 much faster than the 6.0 (the 8.1 has much more torque, but not much more HP)?  How bad will my MPG be (unloaded) if I get the 8.1?  What would the MPG be on the 6.0?  Does the extra weight of the 8.1 cause any problems?

 

(I'm a newbie, but this looks like a great board)

 

Thanks for any thoughts.

[02 2500 Avalanche]

The 6.0 sounds perfect for what you are going to use it for. The milage on the 8.1 is around 10-12mpg so for a daily driver it is not the best. Hp does not mean a thing in a truck, it is all about the torque. The 8.1 has 455tq and the 6.0 has 360tq, but there is no need for the 8.1 unless you tow 10,000lbs. The 6.0 also has more than enough power to move the 'burban with no complaints. BTW, welcome to the board  

 

 Alex

[Shaners]

I agree that the 6.0L would be a good choice for a driver and light tow vehicle.  In fact you really don't need the 3/4 ton unless you just really want one.

 

In the 2500 series Avalanches and Suburbans, the 8.1L is restricted through a "torque management program" in the computer.  The computer won't allow all the HP and torque of the 8.1L to be released until the truck is rolling.  Once the truck is rolling it will pull like a "raped ape"...

 

The 6.0L will certainly give a little better gas milage...

[Ski-Dooman]

you will go through alot less oil with the 6.0 as well.  I pull 2 500lb sleds on a 1000lb sledbed trailer with my 6.0 and dont even notice the weight.  :thumb: