3L Duramax Diesel Engine vs. 5.3L V8 Engine

So you’ve decided to take home a new Chevy Silverado. You’ve found the right trim, you’ve compared all the choices and bed sizes, but now you’re looking at the engine and wondering which one you should go with. For the same cost, you could select the 3.0L Duramax diesel engine, or the 5.3L V8 gasoline engine. But you might be wondering what are the differences between these two, and which one is better for taking care of your jobs near Kissimmee. You may already know that diesel engines require less maintenance, while delivering impressive fuel economy when it comes to long trips. But if power is what you need, then the 5.3L V8 offers class-leading towing and 0-60 times. Find out more about the pros and cons of these two engine choices below, and then schedule a test drive with both engines today by contacting us. 

3L Duramax Diesel vs. 5.3L V8: Key Specs

All choices being equal in terms of trims and towing options, simply put, the choice boils down to fuel efficiency and horsepower. The gas truck is quicker accelerating from a dead stop, and can hit a higher towing maximum. If, however, you’re not towing heavy loads but instead commuting regularly to and from Orlando and Poinciana, then the superior fuel economy of the Duramax engine option really adds up. Compare key performance specs for a diesel vs. gas truck, below:

5.3L V8 Gasoline Engine

• Output – 355 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque
• Efficiency (RWD) – EPA-estimated 17/23 city/highway MPG
• Efficiency (4WD) – EPA-estimated 16/22 city/highway MPG
• Availability – All Silverado trims

3.0L 6-cylinder Turbodiesel

• Output – 277 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque
• Efficiency (FWD) – EPA-estimated 23/33 city/highway MPG
• Efficiency (4WD) – EPA-estimated 22/26 city/highway MPG
• Availability – LT, RST, LTZ, High Country trims

Keep in mind that while both engines make 460 lb-ft of torque, the diesel delivers it by 1,500 rpm vs. 4,100 rpm for the V8. You’ll notice the difference on the highway, where the V8 must work a lot harder to generate the same amount of power.

3L Duramax Diesel vs. 5.3L V8: Towing Capability

While the 3L Duramax diesel shines in terms of fuel efficiency, the 5.3L V8 pulls ahead in the towing capability. It offers a max towing rating when properly equipped of 13,400 pounds versus the Duramax and its 9,300 pounds. Many drivers will have all of the power that they need in the diesel, but if you’re planning on extremely heavy loads, such as large boats or large RVs, then you’ll need the power offered by the 5.3L V8. But, if you’re looking at plenty of uphill towing or towing at high altitudes, you’ll notice less drop in performance with the diesel engine, versus the 5.3L V8.

Find Your Chevy Silverado Today at Starling Chevrolet Buick GMC

If you’re still trying to decide between the diesel vs. gas trucks, then come into Starling Chevrolet Buick GMC and explore our selection of vehicle options. Our finance department is ready to help you make an informed decision, with plenty of car buying tips.