Verified answer

Suspension is heavier on the 2500 so it'll be a rougher ride than the 1500 you'll get better gas mileage with the 1500 where the 2500 offer engine package from 6.0 up bigger engine more gas to feed it also with the 2500 if your hauling a lot of load with a trailer 2500 is the one to go with heavier suspension more weight less loads but for regular driving playing in the mud things like that 1500 will workouts fine

It depends on what you are going to use it for. The 1500 is a half ton truck, while the 2500 is a 3/4 ton, so has a heavier frame and suspension for carrying a bigger load. The bigger truck usually doesn't get a good fuel mileage either. I drive an F350 dually, which is a 1 ton, and then I replaced the rear springs with heavier than factory to accommodate the trailer I haul.

yes,the 2500 is much more capable and built for heavier loads and towing, including the differential, transmission, cooling and suspension... but these drink gas very well

the 1500 is also capable but for lighter loads and lighter towing, but still capable to tow well over 5k pounds

There are many used Sierra and Silverado 4*4 models on the market, you just need to look more closely, although GMC does seem to offer more AWD models

keep looking and specify the drivetrain you are looking for

i had a 2002 sierra and was able to haul 27 bails - 90-130 pounds a piece in the bed - also pull an enclosed horse trailor - the 2500 hd can pull more - but why bother if the smaller can handle pretty big loads by themselves - of course you could pull more but control is a big factor unless you haul all the time