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Best engine for towing - 5.3 or 6.0?

On paper the 6.0 makes more torque, which is what towing uses:

Engine Size Years Power Torque Compression Block AFM
LM7 5.3 L 1999–2007 270–295 hp 315–335 lb-ft 9.49:1 iron No
LMG 5.3 L 2007–2014 315–320 hp 335–340 lb-ft 9.60:1 iron Yes
LQ4 6.0 L 1999–2008 300–335 hp 355–375 lb-ft 9.40:1 iron No
LQ9 6.0 L 2002–2007 345 hp 380 lb-ft 10.00:1 iron No
LY6 6.0 L 2007–2013 361 hp 385 lb-ft 9.60:1 iron No

Speedway's generalization: Stock 5.3 is rated around 320 hp / 340 lb-ft; stock 6.0 around 300 hp / 360 lb-ft, depending on version and year (Speedway generalization). We don't have a source comparing them in towing, so the ratings are the fair comparison.

Confidence: medium — sources disagree or are limited; check the sources below.

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