Final Year of the Square Body

GM’s GMT400 platform ended production in 2000 as it introduced the more rounded GMT800 and also the end of the “square body” era.  To mark the end of this era, GM released two special edition Chevrolet Tahoe wagons, one being the Z-71 Special Edition.

This Texas sourced, well preserved, 65K mile, one owner example of the 2000 Chevrolet Tahoe Z-71, which maintains all factory installed equipment without a single modification from stock.  Power comes from the L31 5.7L Vortec V8 backed by the 4L60E 4-speed automatic with multi-select four wheel drive. This Tahoe is also equipped with a 3.73 rear gear ratio and G80 locking differential.

The Z-71 package includes a monochromatic exterior finished in Light Pewter Metallic, 16-inch, five spoke Alcoa wheels finished in polished aluminum, color-keyed fender flares with matching bumpers and grille, underbody skid plates, black brush guard, Bilstein shocks, inset fog lights, side step bars, tail-lamp protectors, two-tone leather seating and an oversized, two-row radiator.

The exterior of this Tahoe Z-71 shows very well.  The Light Pewter Metallic finish shines beautifully with no signs of oxidation or peeling clear coating.  The paint matches on all surfaces with only minor rock chips and a subtle dent directly under the driver’s side door handle.  The bumpers show some minor wear including light scratches. The front brush guard and side steps are still holding their original matte black finish, but do show some signs of scratches and scuffs.

The wheels are original, polished aluminum, Alcoa five spokes showing some wear.  Scuffing is present as well as minor curbing. For the age, they show very well, but the imperfections are notable.  The tires Michelin LTX M/S tires are in good condition with approximately 7/32 tread wear remaining.

The interior has remained untouched over the last two decades of use.  Factory floor mats are still intact and have protected the cabin’s carpetening very well.  There is little staining present on all surfaces. The neutral theme, two-tone seating has held up very well showing minimal wear in the front and rear.  The headliner is free from rips, stains and sags.

Interior electronics have all been tested and function properly including power windows, locks, four wheel drive system, AM/FM/Tape/CD player, front and rear heat and A/C controls, lights, mirrors, wipers and gauges.

 The engine bay and chassis are both very clean, which is expected from a vehicle sourced directly from Texas.  There is minimal surface oxidation on the chassis with only traces located on the leaf springs, spring shackles and sections of the rear axle.  All brake lines, fuel lines and transmission lines are corrosion free.

Overall, this Z-71 Tahoe drives extremely well, starts with ease, shifts smoothly and brakes responsively.