Because there was an overlap between the first and second generation Chevrolet Silverados in 2007, the first generation was referred to as the Silverado Classic 3500 for that year only. The Classic 3500 is the one-ton entry in the full-size pickup lineup, alongside the half-ton 1500 and the three-quarter-ton 2500.

The Chevrolet Silverado Classic 3500 comes in five trims -- Work Truck, LS, 1LT, 2LT, and 3LT. There are three cabin designations, Regular, Crew, and Extended. The Crew cabs are only offered with the LT trims and the Regular only with the Work Truck and LS. Extended cabs are offered on all trim lines. Every permutation of Silverado Classic 3500 can be had as a 2WD or 4WD, with choice of a short or long cargo bed. There are three V8 engine choices, culminating in a class-leading Duramax turbodiesel that gets 360-hp and 650 lb-ft of torque.

This pickup is a hauler, with a 12,000-pound towing capacity. Like the old song goes, it's like a rock, built to take a beating. The newer generation will be longer and wider, with more interior features, but for utilitarian purposes, the Silverado Classic 3500 is a true heavyweight. For non-work purposes, it does seat four passengers in two rows, and the LT trims come with more car-like conveniences, such as power features, a 6-CD player, power driver's seat, and wheel-mounted controls. Safety features are lacking in the old Classic 3500, with only dual front airbags and ABS standard. No side impact bags for either row were offered.