Z71 vs. 4×4 – How Are They Different?
4×4 vehicles first emerged in the late 19th century and are today very popular types of cars. The Z71 designation, on the other hand, was introduced by Chevrolet in 1988.
Both designations are often used by Chevrolet and GMC, owned by the General Motors Company.
If you’re a truck enthusiast looking to buy a Chevy or GMC truck, you’ll likely come across 4×4 and Z71 in the vehicle descriptions.
Let’s explore the meaning of 4×4 and Z71 and explain their differences.
What Is 4×4 In Cars And Trucks?
The infamous four-wheel drive (4WD) vehicles have been around for over a century. Plenty of manufacturers produce 4×4 vehicles.
To put it simply, a four-wheel drive car or truck is a vehicle in which the engine on an even level powers all four wheels.
In four-wheel drives, traction is provided to the four wheels whenever needed, as opposed to all-wheel drives (AWD), which are full-time 4×4 vehicles.
4×4 Vehicles: Pros
- Improved traction in harsh conditions
4×4 vehicles provide better control and traction in rough conditions such as rain, snowfall, and storms.
- All-terrain capabilities
4-wheel drives are perfect off-road vehicles designed to withstand harsh terrain. In addition, the ability to switch between 4×4 and 4×2 systems, depending on the terrain, is a great option.
- Better safety and stability
4×4 are heavy and possess powerful engines. They have a solid grip on all sorts of roads, which ensures better control and stability.
4×4 Vehicles: Cons
- Increased fuel consumption
Fuel economy isn’t the 4-wheel drive’s strongest suit, especially when the 4×4 system is on.
- Higher prices and added costs
Because of their powerful engine and many features, 4×4 vehicles are usually expensive. Their insurance and maintenance costs are higher than most 4×2 vehicles.
What Does Z71 Mean In Trucks?
Chevrolet first introduced the Z71 package in their trucks in 1988. Today, the Z71 package is offered in several Chevrolet and GMC trucks.
The Z71 package contains features that enhance the truck’s off-road capabilities. This includes:
- Monotube shocks, possess a better damping force and a more solid suspension system (front and rear) compared to twin-tube shocks.
- Metal sill plates and transfer case underbody shield, offer better protection and durability to your vehicle underbody.
- Recovery hooks, included in the package.
- Powerful air-cleaner
- Improved hill descent assist, allowing a more easily controlled downhill cruise.
- Park assist, both front and rear.
- Improved tires, suitable for all types of terrain.
The Z71 package is well-respected for off-roading and is included in many Chevrolet and GMC trucks. Popular options with Z71 include the Chevy Silverado, Chevy Colorado, and the GMC Sierra.
What’s The Difference Between 4×4 And Z71?
Note that Z71 isn’t an alternative to 4×4 in vehicles. 4×4 indicates how the wheels are powered by the engine, while Z71 is a package of added features that may or may not come with 4×4 vehicles.
While Z71 trucks are four-wheel drives in most cases, the package doesn’t define whether or not a vehicle is 4×4. The Z71 package was included in several two-wheel drive models of Chevy Silverado, Chevy Tahoe, Chevy Suburban, and GMC Sierra, among others.
Along with Z71, several “Z packages” such as Z60, Z66, Z77, Z82, Z85, and Z92 offer different groups of features. Z71 focuses primarily on suspension capabilities, although it does come with other features.
Should I Go With A Regular 4×4 Or A Z71 Truck?
4×4 vehicles have great off-road capabilities and may come with various interesting features.
If you’re looking for a Chevrolet or GMC four-wheel drive, you may find the Z71 package very useful, especially if you often drive through rough terrain.
In particular, the difference between Z71 and regular four-wheel drives is quite noticeable in suspension.
In addition, the monotube shocks included in the Z71 package have better damping and heat dissipation abilities than the twin-tube shocks. They absorb shocks more efficiently and distribute the pressure over a larger area.
Monotube shocks are undeniably the better option, offering greater durability.
Other Z71 features are also good, including underbody protection and better assist and park control. While a good regular 4×4 already offers outstanding control, the Z71 package does increase the vehicle’s durability.
Since Z71 Chevrolet or GMC four-wheel drives contain all the 4×4 features and then some, they are more expensive. However, the added features are worth the price, especially if you’re an off-road enthusiast.
