Freightliner M2 106 vs Kenworth T270 / T370
Two medium-duty rigs compared spec for spec: the M2 106 (2002–present, 200–350 hp) against the T270 / T370 (2008–2021, Up to 380 hp). Same data we keep on every truck in the encyclopedia — and Mike on hand if the answer depends on your routes and loads.
M2 106
The do-everything medium-duty workhorse.
T270 / T370
The versatile medium-duty conventional that did a little of everything.
| Spec | Freightliner M2 106 | Kenworth T270 / T370 |
|---|---|---|
| Maker | Daimler Truck North America | PACCAR |
| Class | Class 6–7 | Class 6–7 |
| Body type | Medium-Duty | Medium-Duty |
| Years | 2002–present | 2008–2021 |
| Rating | 25,000–33,000 lb GVWR | Up to 66,000 lb GVWR |
| Power | 200–350 hp | Up to 380 hp |
| Engines | Cummins B6.7, Cummins L9, Detroit DD8 | PACCAR PX-7, PACCAR PX-9 |
| Applications | Delivery, Utility, Beverage, Tow | Pickup & delivery, Municipal, Utility, Towing |
About the Freightliner M2 106
Introduced in early 2002 out of a $250 million development program, the M2 106 anchored Freightliner's new Business Class M2 line and replaced the older FL-Series medium-duty trucks. Its name comes from its 106-inch BBC (bumper-to-back-of-cab) dimension, and it launched with the Mercedes-Benz MBE900 as standard power, growing into one of the most common Class 6-8 work trucks on US roads with GVWRs up to 66,000 lb.
About the Kenworth T270 / T370
The Class 6 T270 (26,000 lb GVW) and Class 7 'baby-8' T370 (up to 66,000 lb GVW) featured a hood that tilts a full 90 degrees for engine access, and served as the direct predecessors to today's T280/T380.
Which one fits your operation?
Specs only get you so far — routes, loads and the shop that maintains it matter. Mike, the free AI truck consultant, talks it through with you. No account, 24/7.
