Kenworth and Peterbilt are two of the most popular semi-truck manufacturers in the United States. Both brands are owned by PACCAR, which is known for producing high-quality, heavy-duty trucks. While both Kenworth and Peterbilt have a loyal following, there are some key differences between the two brands that truck drivers and fleet managers should be aware of.
One of the biggest differences between Kenworth vs Peterbilt is their focus.
Kenworth is known for producing trucks that are reliable and built to last. They are designed with the driver in mind and are often praised for their comfort and ease of use.
Peterbilt, on the other hand, is more focused on producing trucks that are stylish and luxurious. They are often thought of as the “Cadillac” of semi-trucks and are popular among owner-operators who want to make a statement on the road.
Another key difference between Kenworth and Peterbilt is their resale value. While both brands hold their value well, Peterbilt trucks tend to command a higher price on the secondhand market. This is partly due to their reputation for luxury and style, but it’s also because they are often better equipped than Kenworth trucks.
However, it’s worth noting that Kenworth trucks are generally less expensive to purchase new, which can offset some of the difference in resale value.
History of Kenworth and Peterbilt
Early Days
Kenworth was founded in 1923 by two brothers, George and Louis Gerlinger Jr. The company started as a car and truck dealership in Seattle, Washington. In 1926, Kenworth began building its own trucks, which were known for their durability and reliability.
Peterbilt was founded in 1939 by T.A. Peterman, who started the company with a single truck. Peterbilt’s early trucks were known for their innovative designs, such as the first tilting cab-over-engine truck, which allowed for easier engine access and maintenance.
Merger
In 1945, Kenworth and Peterbilt merged to form the Pacific Car and Foundry Company (PACCAR). The merger allowed both companies to share resources and expand their reach. PACCAR continued to produce both Kenworth and Peterbilt trucks, which were known for their high quality and durability.
Current Ownership
Today, PACCAR is still the parent company of both Kenworth and Peterbilt. The company is headquartered in Bellevue, Washington, and has manufacturing facilities throughout the United States and Canada.
PACCAR is one of the largest manufacturers of heavy-duty trucks in the world, and its trucks are known for their reliability, durability, and innovative designs.
Design and Features
When it comes to design and features, both Kenworth and Peterbilt offer unique qualities that make them stand out from each other.
Here are some of the key features and design elements of both brands.
Exterior Design
Kenworth trucks tend to have a more modern and sleek design, with curved lines and aerodynamic features.
Meanwhile, Peterbilt trucks have a more classic and angular design, with a long hood and a more traditional look.
Both brands offer a variety of options for customization, including different colors, grilles, and lighting options.
Interior Design
Both Kenworth and Peterbilt trucks offer spacious and comfortable cabs, with a variety of options for customization.
Kenworth trucks tend to have a more ergonomic design, with features like adjustable seats and steering columns.
Peterbilt trucks, on the other hand, offer a more classic and traditional interior design, with woodgrain accents and chrome details.
Aerodynamic Features
Both Kenworth and Peterbilt are known for their aerodynamic features, which help to improve fuel efficiency and reduce wind resistance.
Kenworth trucks offer features like a sloped hood and side skirts, while Peterbilt trucks have a long, tapered hood and a curved windshield.
Drivetrain
Both Kenworth and Peterbilt trucks are equipped with powerful drivetrains that are designed for heavy-duty hauling.
Kenworth trucks are known for their smooth and responsive transmissions, while Peterbilt trucks offer a range of options for engines and transmissions, including automatic and manual transmissions.
MX Series Engines
Both Kenworth and Peterbilt trucks are equipped with PACCAR MX series engines, which are known for their reliability and performance.
These engines offer high torque and horsepower ratings, as well as advanced fuel injection technology that helps to reduce emissions and improve fuel efficiency.
Comparison of Kenworth and Peterbilt
When it comes to choosing between Kenworth and Peterbilt, there are several factors to consider. In this section, we will compare the two brands in terms of quality, fuel efficiency, and resale value.
Quality Comparison
Both Kenworth and Peterbilt are known for producing high-quality trucks that are built to last. However, there are some differences between the two brands when it comes to quality.
Kenworth is known for focusing on the quality of their trucks, with a reputation for producing some of the most durable and reliable trucks on the market.
Their trucks are built with high-quality materials and are designed to withstand even the toughest conditions.
Peterbilt, on the other hand, is known for focusing on the comfort of the driver. Their trucks are designed with ergonomic features that make them more comfortable to drive, which can be important for long hauls.
However, this focus on comfort may come at the expense of some durability.
Fuel Efficiency Comparison
Fuel efficiency is an important consideration for truck drivers, as it can have a significant impact on operating costs.
When it comes to fuel efficiency, there are some differences between Kenworth and Peterbilt.
Kenworth has a reputation for producing trucks that are more fuel-efficient than Peterbilt. This is due in part to their focus on aerodynamics, which can help to reduce wind resistance and improve fuel efficiency.
Peterbilt, on the other hand, is known for producing trucks that are more powerful and have higher horsepower. While this can be an advantage in some situations, it can also lead to lower fuel efficiency.
Resale Value Comparison
Resale value is an important consideration for truck drivers, as it can have a significant impact on the overall cost of ownership.
When it comes to resale value, there are some differences between Kenworth and Peterbilt.
On the secondhand market, Kenworth trucks command a higher price than Peterbilt trucks. This is due in part to their reputation for quality and durability, which can make them more attractive to buyers.
However, Peterbilt trucks are known for their comfort and ergonomic features, which can also be a selling point.
In some cases, this focus on driver comfort may translate to a higher resale value.
Popular Models
When it comes to Kenworth and Peterbilt, there are a few popular models that stand out. Let’s take a closer look at two of them: the Kenworth T680 and the Peterbilt 579.
Kenworth T680
The Kenworth T680 is a popular choice among truck drivers for its fuel efficiency, comfort, and reliability.
It’s equipped with a PACCAR MX-13 engine, which is known for its power and efficiency.
The T680 also features a spacious cab with plenty of storage options, as well as advanced safety features like lane departure warning and collision mitigation.
One of the standout features of the T680 is its aerodynamic design, which helps to reduce wind resistance and improve fuel efficiency.
According to Kenworth, the T680 can achieve up to 8% better fuel economy than other trucks in its class.
Peterbilt 579
The Peterbilt 579 is another popular model among truck drivers, known for its comfort, performance, and fuel efficiency.
It’s equipped with a PACCAR MX-13 engine, like the T680, and also features a spacious cab with plenty of storage options.
One of the standout features of the 579 is its aerodynamic design, which helps to reduce wind resistance and improve fuel efficiency.
According to Peterbilt, the 579 can achieve up to 4% better fuel economy than other trucks in its class.
In addition to its fuel efficiency, the 579 is also known for its advanced safety features, including lane departure warning, collision mitigation, and adaptive cruise control.
Maintenance and Repairs
When it comes to maintenance and repairs, both Kenworth and Peterbilt are known for their durability and reliability. However, like any other heavy-duty truck, they require regular maintenance and repairs to keep them in top condition.
In this section, we will discuss some common issues that truck drivers face with their Kenworth and Peterbilt trucks, as well as some tips for maintaining and repairing them.
Common Issues
Both Kenworth and Peterbilt trucks are known for their high-quality build and long-lasting performance. However, there are some common issues that drivers may face with their trucks.
Some of these issues include:
- Electrical problems
- Fuel system issues
- Brake problems
- Suspension issues
- Transmission issues
To avoid these issues, it is important to follow a regular maintenance schedule and perform routine inspections.
Regular maintenance can help catch potential problems before they become major repairs, saving drivers time and money in the long run.
Insulation and Wiring
Insulation and wiring are two critical components of any heavy-duty truck. Proper insulation helps keep the cab comfortable and quiet, while wiring ensures that all electrical components are working properly.
Both Kenworth and Peterbilt trucks are known for their high-quality insulation and wiring systems, but they still require regular maintenance and repairs.
To maintain the insulation and wiring systems in your Kenworth or Peterbilt truck, it is important to:
- Check for any signs of wear or damage
- Keep the cab clean and free of debris
- Schedule regular inspections with a qualified mechanic
Airline System
The airline system is another critical component of any heavy-duty truck. It is responsible for delivering air to the brakes, suspension, and other systems.
Both Kenworth and Peterbilt trucks are equipped with high-quality airline systems, but they still require regular maintenance and repairs.
To maintain the airline system in your Kenworth or Peterbilt truck, it is important to:
- Check for any leaks or damage
- Keep the system clean and free of debris
- Schedule regular inspections with a qualified mechanic
Conclusion
When it comes to choosing between Kenworth and Peterbilt trucks, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and specific needs.
Both manufacturers have a long-standing reputation for producing high-quality, dependable trucks that are built to last.
Kenworth trucks are known for their sleek design and aerodynamic features, making them a popular choice for drivers who prioritize fuel efficiency and performance.
On the other hand, Peterbilt trucks are recognized for their innovative designs and brand recognition, which can contribute to a higher resale value.
It’s important to consider the specific features and capabilities of each truck model when making a decision. For example, Peterbilt semis tend to have a longer protruding hood, while Kenworth semis have a generally shorter hood. Kenworth sleeper semis also have a bump due to the raised-roof sleeper cab design.
Both Kenworth and Peterbilt trucks are manufactured by the same company and have a reputation for being dependable and high-quality. Ultimately, the choice between the two comes down to the individual driver’s needs and preferences.