In the are where I live, if you're building a retaining wall you might bring a skid loader such as the Kubota SVL65. Weighing in at 3840kg (8465 lbs), the kei truck couldn't pull that with its meager towing capacity of 600kg (1323 lbs). Meanwhile, the lowest 2023 Silverado 1500 has a towing capacity of 4309kg (9,500 lbs).

A popular block used for retaining walls here is 40x30x6cm (16x12x6in) & 37kg (82 lbs). The Hi-Jet can haul 9 blocks in its bed, or about 13 in a trailer. Meanwhile, the Silverado could haul 23 blocks in its bed, or over two full 48-block pallets towed on a trailer.

[–] [email protected] 11 points 5 months ago* (last edited 5 months ago) (1 children)

a 1995 1500 could tow that as well and it didn't have to be a pedestrian crushing monstrosity to do it or have a dinky 6' bed. Just look at the 3rd picture in the OP to see what I mean.

[–] [email protected] 2 points 5 months ago

That depends on which package you're comparing. As noted before, the lowest 2023 has a towing capacity of 9500 lbs while the low end of the range in '95 was 7500 lbs which is not capable of towing the Kubota skid loader. Comparing the high end of the ranges, the '95 comes in at 10000 lbs vs 13300 for the modern build. That's a huge difference.

Examining the 3rd picture in the OP, it looks like a 2000ish Toyota Tacoma which is no where near comparable having around just 1/3 of the towing capacity of 2023 Silverado 1500s.

The '95 1500 with closer-yet-lesser capabilities has a form factor much more similar to the 2023. The major changes to form follow function. There have been major passenger safety improvements and around 25% improved fuel efficiency. There's more going on under the hood. It's not empty space - just ask anyone who's had to work on one.