We drove the 5.3l V8. Didn't even have to take it on the freeway to know that it had a lot more giddi-up. I drove it down some twisty roads and it handled about the same as the Z85-non-Z71 version. I did not think the bigger stabilizer bar and the Brembo shocks would make that much difference and they did not.
The 18" all-terrain tires were mushier than the 18" all-season tires on the other Silverado that we drove. They felt a little mushier as do the twelve Blizzak snow tires with gas-blown micro-cells in the tread that I put on three other cars. That may be a consideration when towing. We might just wear them out with the towing load. The all-terrain tires were not obnoxiously noisy and for that I am thankful.
So, the dealer is obtaining a V8 Z71 Silverado 1500 for purchase. It will be a super off-road machine and we are going to detune it by putting steps under the doors to make it easier to climb in. I can hear the off-road enthusiasts sighing already. The ground clearance !! !!
