Peterbilt 389 vs Peterbilt 579
Two sleeper rigs compared spec for spec: the 389 (2007–2023, Up to 605 hp) against the 579 (2012–present, 405–565 hp). Same data we keep on every truck in the encyclopedia — and Mike on hand if the answer depends on your routes and loads.
389
The chrome king. The owner-operator icon.
579
The aerodynamic flagship of the fleet world.
| Spec | Peterbilt 389 | Peterbilt 579 |
|---|---|---|
| Maker | PACCAR | PACCAR |
| Class | Class 8 | Class 8 |
| Body type | Sleeper | Sleeper |
| Years | 2007–2023 | 2012–present |
| Rating | Up to 80,000 lb GCWR | Up to 80,000 lb GCWR |
| Power | Up to 605 hp | 405–565 hp |
| Engines | PACCAR MX-13, Cummins X15, Cummins ISX | PACCAR MX-13, PACCAR MX-11, Cummins X15 |
| Applications | Owner-operator, Show truck | Long-haul, Regional |
About the Peterbilt 389
The Model 389 was Peterbilt's flagship long-hood conventional and a premium throwback prized by owner-operators, famous for the longest, lowest hood the brand ever built. Peterbilt produced the final 389 in 2024, ending the 359/379/389 family's roughly 57-year run and retiring the 300-series lineage; the new Model 589 took over its mantle.
About the Peterbilt 579
Launched in 2012 as Peterbilt's on-highway flagship, the aerodynamic Model 579 anchors the EPIQ fuel-efficiency package and in 2018 gained the integrated UltraLoft sleeper, which gives drivers a full 8 feet of standing headroom and roughly 70 cubic feet of storage. It is the truck most fleets pick when they want Peterbilt's best highway fuel economy in a Class 8 tractor.
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.
