ZR2 or Z71?

I know I'm asking this to a biased crowd, but...
I'm looking to get a new truck. I'm considering a 99 or 00 ZR2 with the 4.3 high output and a 96 or 97 K1500 with the 5.7. I had a 92 Z71 and loved the truck. I know a good bit about them. I don't know anything about the S10's. What are some of the things to consider with the 4.3? Are there any big problems with the 99 or 00 s10's. Any advice? TIA


JT

i've got a '03 ZR2,and the gas mileage sucks,14-16mpg compared to 20-22 mpg in a '96 Z-71 with the 5.7

Its all about you. Not what we want. What kind of driving do you do? Haul anything? How often? Pull any trailers?
I would have to say reliabilty is equal in both motors. The S-10 might be a lil cheaper in maintenance but not much. Many aftermarket parts for both.
The s-10 will be no where near the truck that a Z-71 is for doing "truck like" jobs. But if your in it for the sport I am sure it will be as fun.
You have had a Z-71 so go test drive a Zr2 and tell the dealer who has one that you want it for atleast an hour. I got to test drive my 94 K1500 Blazer for 3 hours that I bought in 98. I am sure only big car dealers will do this though.

off road the Zr2 is better, its more manuverable, weighs less, and has a better torque ratio. for standard driving and towing go for a Z71, just remeber the ZR2 is not meant for city driving its meant for sport, and a Z71 is a city truck that is capable of having some fun off the beaten path, mostly its a workhorse, i love my ZR2 but i hate its gas guzzling