Choose the Kenworth W990 for OTR driver comfort — its 86" sleeper options exceed the Peterbilt 520's 0" maximum. The Kenworth W990 offers more peak power (605 hp vs 500 hp), giving it an edge for heavy-haul and mountainous routes. The Kenworth W990 starts at a lower base MSRP ($170k vs $200k), offering better entry-level value.
| Spec | Kenworth W990 64 available · from $66,000 | Peterbilt 520 85 available · from $122,500 |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Options | ||
| Engine options | Cummins X15, PACCAR MX-13 | PACCAR MX-11, Cummins L9, Cummins X12 |
| Horsepower range | 400–605 hp | 260–500 hp |
| Peak torque | 2,050 lb-ft | 1,700 lb-ft |
| Weight Ratings | ||
| GVWR (max) | 80,000 lbs | 66,000 lbs |
| GCWR | 250,000 lbs | 66,000 lbs |
| Transmission Options | ||
| Transmissions | Eaton Fuller 18-speed, PACCAR Automated 12-speed (TX-12), Eaton Endurant HD 12-speed | Allison 4500 RDS, PACCAR Automated 12-speed (TX-12) |
| Dimensions | ||
| Wheelbase options | 3 options (244"–280") | 4 options (152"–212") |
Choose the Kenworth W990 for OTR driver comfort — its 86" sleeper options exceed the Peterbilt 520's 0" maximum. The Kenworth W990 offers more peak power (605 hp vs 500 hp), giving it an edge for heavy-haul and mountainous routes. The Kenworth W990 starts at a lower base MSRP ($170k vs $200k), offering better entry-level value.
Both the Kenworth W990 and Peterbilt 520 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 W990 is built by Kenworth and the Peterbilt 520 is built by Peterbilt. Both are Class 8 conventional tractors but differ in powertrain options, cab dimensions, dealer networks, and MSRP.
The Kenworth W990 tops out at 605 hp / 2050 lb-ft torque. The Peterbilt 520 tops out at 500 hp / 1700 lb-ft. GVWR is 80,000 lbs for the Kenworth W990 and 66,000 lbs for the Peterbilt 520.
TruckRadar has 149 Kenworth W990 and Peterbilt 520 trucks available right now from dealers nationwide. Search by make, model, price, and location at truckradar.ai.
| Sleeper sizes | 40", 52", 76", 86" | No sleeper |
| Pricing (estimated) |
| Base MSRP range | $170,000–$225,000 | $200,000–$280,000 |