I've been looking at several trucks and the 8.1s around here are consistently cheaper than the six-ohs. I've pretty much narrowed it down to two GMCs...one is a 2003 CCLB 6.0 SLE 2wd w/ center console and rear air (hard to find!!), an ARE camper top, Westin tube steps, and 38K for $22500....the other is a 2001 ECLB 8.1L SLE 2wd w/ center seat, a Ranch Hand brush guard, and 36K for $16000. Both have 4.10 rear ends and are automatics. Which is the better buy? Obviously, the 8.1 GMC sounds pretty good in that its $6500 cheaper than the 6.0, has the Allison (the only auto tranny paired w/ the 8.1 right?) and has 2000 fewer miles. However, the the six-oh is a crew cab with rear air (the camper top is pretty much useless to me...i would likely sell it).Both have immaculate bodies and recent tires. the 8.1 has a limited warranty with it, likely a 3 month/3k warranty or something like that (its at a dealership), whereas the six-oh is being sold by an individual and is out of warranty.

Thoughts? comments?

thanks in adv.

Personally, the 8.1 would be my choice. For 2wd trucks though, those prices do sound a bit high...

Personally, the 8.1 would be my choice. For 2wd trucks though, those prices do sound a bit high...

maybe, but look at the mileage....also, they are lwb trucks, which are few and far between in these parts.

2000 miles difference is nothing.

What will you be using the truck for? Towing? Camping? You will ultimately have to make the choice, but I like the "bigger is always better" when it comes to engine size. Gas mileage is another thing to consider, but if you tow the larger motor could come in real handy.

Performance parts are out there for both engines, if thats a thought in the back of your mind too.

Just weight out all the options for both trucks verses what you and or your family need and it will work out.

I tow a fair amount of the time, though I'll be using it to commute to school, 20 miles down the highway. I'm used to my half ton w/ a 4.8L and getting 16 mostly highway and 10-11 towing a 5x10 with a tailgate and an atv. I don't suppose something as small as a 5x10 would affect the mpgs of an 8.1 though would it. Most of you guys that see 9-10 towing are towing 10k+ right?

Here's something I've been thinking about. Really, the only reason I wouldn't buy an 8.1 is because of the fuel economy (or lack thereof). However, it would take a very long time for the lower fuel economy to offset the lower cost of the 8.1 right? I mean, $6500 would buy quite a bit of gas.

That's a big price difference for two trucks with basically the same milage.



What are your priorities? If the CC is what you are looking for, then there you go. If you are towing heavy, then the 8.1 is the ticket. If all you are going to tow is a 5x10 trailer then it doesn't matter - either truck will not even know that it's back there.

IMHO, the biggest plus for the 8.1 is the Allison - without a doubt the best auto transmission out there. You can expect about two to three MPG's more out of the 6.0 than the 8.1 if you are running empty. Once you start loading up, that will change. I have friends with trucks set up like mine that have the 6.0 and I get the same or better milage with much better power.

BTW, If I'm easy on mine i'll get 9 MPG highway pulling a flatbed with 5 ATV's on it - total trailer and load weight about 5,000 lbs.

Overall, I would say go for the 8.1, but mostly for the price difference. You are correct, $6,500 will buy a bunch of gas.

Yes your right, and thats why I told you to weight it all out. It will take a while to make up that difference. Of course you could get the smaller engine and we could get you some performance parts and make it have enough power then too....LOL!

And you are right with the larger towing weights and low mileage. I had a 1 ton 2wd GMC Sierra that got terrible mileage when towing my 16' enclosed loaded. But when I towed the smalled trailer it never changed much to matter.

Its just all a matter of what you plan to do with the truck the most, tow or travel. Either one can do both, its just which way to lean. You will make the right choice!