Choose the Western Star 49X for OTR driver comfort — its 86" sleeper options exceed the Freightliner Cascadia's 0" maximum. The Western Star 49X offers more peak power (505 hp vs 400 hp), giving it an edge for heavy-haul and mountainous routes.
| Spec | Freightliner Cascadia 5185 available · from $6,000 | Western Star 49X 126 available · from $74,900 |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Options | ||
| Engine options | Detroit DD15, Detroit DD13 | Detroit DD15, Detroit DD13 |
| Horsepower range | 400–400 hp | 350–505 hp |
| Peak torque | 1,750 lb-ft | 1,850 lb-ft |
| Weight Ratings | ||
| GVWR (max) | — | 80,000 lbs |
| GCWR | 80,000 lbs | 250,000 lbs |
| Transmission Options | ||
| Transmissions | Detroit DT12 Direct Drive, Detroit DT12 Over Drive | Detroit DT12 Automated 12-speed, Eaton Fuller 18-speed, Eaton Fuller 13-speed |
| Dimensions | ||
| Wheelbase options | 0 options (undefined"–undefined") | 5 options (230"–270") |
Choose the Western Star 49X for OTR driver comfort — its 86" sleeper options exceed the Freightliner Cascadia's 0" maximum. The Western Star 49X offers more peak power (505 hp vs 400 hp), giving it an edge for heavy-haul and mountainous routes.
Both the Freightliner Cascadia and Western Star 49X hold strong resale value among owner-operators and fleets. Resale depends heavily on mileage, maintenance history, and regional demand — not OEM brand alone. Check current listings on TruckRadar for real-world asking prices.
No. The Freightliner Cascadia is built by Freightliner and the Western Star 49X is built by Western Star. Both are Class 8 conventional tractors but differ in powertrain options, cab dimensions, dealer networks, and MSRP.
The Freightliner Cascadia tops out at 400 hp / 1750 lb-ft torque. The Western Star 49X tops out at 505 hp / 1850 lb-ft. GVWR is similar lbs for the Freightliner Cascadia and 80,000 lbs for the Western Star 49X.
TruckRadar has 5,311 Freightliner Cascadia and Western Star 49X trucks available right now from dealers nationwide. Search by make, model, price, and location at truckradar.ai.
| Sleeper sizes | — | 48", 60", 72", 86" |
| Pricing (estimated) |
| Base MSRP range | — | $150,000–$210,000 |