Choose the Western Star 49X for OTR driver comfort — its 86" sleeper options exceed the Volvo VNL's 79" maximum. The Volvo VNL offers more peak power (605 hp vs 505 hp), giving it an edge for heavy-haul and mountainous routes. The Volvo VNL starts at a lower base MSRP ($145k vs $150k), offering better entry-level value.
| Spec | Volvo VNL 480 available · from $8,855 | Western Star 49X 103 available · from $69,900 |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Options | ||
| Engine options | Volvo D13, Cummins X15, Volvo D11 | Detroit DD15, Detroit DD13 |
| Horsepower range | 325–605 hp | 350–505 hp |
| Peak torque | 2,050 lb-ft | 1,850 lb-ft |
| Weight Ratings | ||
| GVWR (max) | 80,000 lbs | 80,000 lbs |
| GCWR | 220,000 lbs | 250,000 lbs |
| Transmission Options | ||
| Transmissions | Volvo I-Shift Automated 12-speed, Eaton Fuller 10-speed | Detroit DT12 Automated 12-speed, Eaton Fuller 18-speed, Eaton Fuller 13-speed |
| Dimensions | ||
| Wheelbase options | 5 options (210"–252") | 5 options (230"–270") |
Choose the Western Star 49X for OTR driver comfort — its 86" sleeper options exceed the Volvo VNL's 79" maximum. The Volvo VNL offers more peak power (605 hp vs 505 hp), giving it an edge for heavy-haul and mountainous routes. The Volvo VNL starts at a lower base MSRP ($145k vs $150k), offering better entry-level value.
Both the Volvo VNL 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 Volvo VNL is built by Volvo 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 Volvo VNL tops out at 605 hp / 2050 lb-ft torque. The Western Star 49X tops out at 505 hp / 1850 lb-ft. GVWR is 80,000 lbs for the Volvo VNL and 80,000 lbs for the Western Star 49X.
TruckRadar has 583 Volvo VNL and Western Star 49X trucks available right now from dealers nationwide. Search by make, model, price, and location at truckradar.ai.
| Sleeper sizes | 58", 70", 79" | 48", 60", 72", 86" |
| Pricing (estimated) |
| Base MSRP range | $145,000–$200,000 | $150,000–$210,000 |