Choose the Western Star 49X for OTR driver comfort — its 86" sleeper options exceed the Kenworth T800's 52" maximum. The Kenworth T800 offers more peak power (605 hp vs 505 hp), giving it an edge for heavy-haul and mountainous routes. The Kenworth T800 starts at a lower base MSRP ($130k vs $150k), offering better entry-level value.
| Spec | Kenworth T800 99 available · from $23,500 | Western Star 49X 103 available · from $69,900 |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Options | ||
| Engine options | PACCAR MX-13, Cummins X15, Cummins ISX15 | Detroit DD15, Detroit DD13 |
| Horsepower range | 400–605 hp | 350–505 hp |
| Peak torque | 2,050 lb-ft | 1,850 lb-ft |
| Weight Ratings | ||
| GVWR (max) | 92,000 lbs | 80,000 lbs |
| GCWR | 250,000 lbs | 250,000 lbs |
| Transmission Options | ||
| Transmissions | Eaton Fuller 18-speed, Allison 4500 RDS, PACCAR Automated 12-speed (TX-12) | Detroit DT12 Automated 12-speed, Eaton Fuller 18-speed, Eaton Fuller 13-speed |
| Dimensions | ||
| Wheelbase options | 5 options (173"–265") | 5 options (230"–270") |
Choose the Western Star 49X for OTR driver comfort — its 86" sleeper options exceed the Kenworth T800's 52" maximum. The Kenworth T800 offers more peak power (605 hp vs 505 hp), giving it an edge for heavy-haul and mountainous routes. The Kenworth T800 starts at a lower base MSRP ($130k vs $150k), offering better entry-level value.
Both the Kenworth T800 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 Kenworth T800 is built by Kenworth 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 Kenworth T800 tops out at 605 hp / 2050 lb-ft torque. The Western Star 49X tops out at 505 hp / 1850 lb-ft. GVWR is 92,000 lbs for the Kenworth T800 and 80,000 lbs for the Western Star 49X.
TruckRadar has 202 Kenworth T800 and Western Star 49X trucks available right now from dealers nationwide. Search by make, model, price, and location at truckradar.ai.
| Sleeper sizes | 38", 52" | 48", 60", 72", 86" |
| Pricing (estimated) |
| Base MSRP range | $130,000–$185,000 | $150,000–$210,000 |