Choose the Western Star 49X for OTR driver comfort — its 86" sleeper options exceed the Peterbilt 520's 0" maximum. The Western Star 49X offers more peak power (505 hp vs 500 hp), giving it an edge for heavy-haul and mountainous routes. The Western Star 49X starts at a lower base MSRP ($150k vs $200k), offering better entry-level value.
| Spec | Peterbilt 520 85 available · from $122,500 | Western Star 49X 103 available · from $69,900 |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Options | ||
| Engine options | PACCAR MX-11, Cummins L9, Cummins X12 | Detroit DD15, Detroit DD13 |
| Horsepower range | 260–500 hp | 350–505 hp |
| Peak torque | 1,700 lb-ft | 1,850 lb-ft |
| Weight Ratings | ||
| GVWR (max) | 66,000 lbs | 80,000 lbs |
| GCWR | 66,000 lbs | 250,000 lbs |
| Transmission Options | ||
| Transmissions | 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 | 4 options (152"–212") | 5 options (230"–270") |
Choose the Western Star 49X for OTR driver comfort — its 86" sleeper options exceed the Peterbilt 520's 0" maximum. The Western Star 49X offers more peak power (505 hp vs 500 hp), giving it an edge for heavy-haul and mountainous routes. The Western Star 49X starts at a lower base MSRP ($150k vs $200k), offering better entry-level value.
Both the Peterbilt 520 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 Peterbilt 520 is built by Peterbilt 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 Peterbilt 520 tops out at 500 hp / 1700 lb-ft torque. The Western Star 49X tops out at 505 hp / 1850 lb-ft. GVWR is 66,000 lbs for the Peterbilt 520 and 80,000 lbs for the Western Star 49X.
TruckRadar has 188 Peterbilt 520 and Western Star 49X trucks available right now from dealers nationwide. Search by make, model, price, and location at truckradar.ai.
| Sleeper sizes | No sleeper | 48", 60", 72", 86" |
| Pricing (estimated) |
| Base MSRP range | $200,000–$280,000 | $150,000–$210,000 |