Opinions Please

[Scottt]

I have narrowed my choices on a truck down to 2. Both are about the same money and I am going to pay cash.

2001 Peterbilt 387
Cat C-15
455hp
3.55 rear gear
10 speed
app. 650,000 miles

2003 Volvo 610
VED 12
450hp
358 rear gear
10 speed
app 385,000 miles

Pulling 53' van from midweat to Az and Southern Ca and back.

Feedback??

Thanks

[BanditsCousin]

Prices?

[Sammonman]

Volvo.
The miles and the cost of the rebuild.
The fuel milage would be the kicker but I believe that would be the Volvoo too.

[Scottt]

Pete $35,000
Volvo $32,000

[tweety bird]

I've owned 2 Volvos and driven 4.

The lower miles alone are a good basis for the choice- I mean, barring unknown problems etc. But that could go either way.

There are guys for whom a Pete is the ultimate truck- and that's why the prices are higher for them. I like the Volvos, though. It's a tool. Period. I mean, you want to go out and get a fancy chicken ride, be my guest. I'd rather put money in the bank!

I think the Volvos are good looking trucks.

[GMAN]

The Volvo has fewer miles and should go longer before an overhaul. On the other hand, the Volvo engine may cause a problem with parts availability and finding a mechanic who will work on it. You will likely need to go to a dealer for engine work. The Peterbilt will probably need an overhaul sooner, but could go over a million miles before any major work, depending on how the truck was maintained. I have driven a 387 with a CAT and 10 speed transmission. I got over 7 mpg. I was shocked to say the least. I drove it for a week while my Peterbilt was in the shop. I liked it. The Volvo should be lighter in weight, but may not have as much room as the Pete. If I felt that the Pete has been well maintained, I would opt for it over the Volvo. One reason would be the easy available of parts and mechanics who can work on it, should I have a problem. Personally, I prefer CAT engines.

[Scottt]

Gman that is something I was thinking about too

The Pete has a 72" standup sleeper and the Volvo has a midroof. When you are looking at them it doesn't look that small but after you get home and think about the difference it's really alot.

[LOAD IT]

That Pete is going to have a higher resale value and in 3-4 years that Volvo is only going to be worth about half of what you paid for it. I had a 660 with VED about 425 horses, good truck.