Peterbilt trucks
Peterbilt model numbers cover different types of work, from highway tractors to medium-duty distribution and refuse collection. Compare the purpose of the chassis before comparing trim. The following profiles help distinguish the model families; the actual vehicle’s build sheet determines the engine, transmission, axle ratings and equipment. For body-equipped trucks, involve the body builder before deciding that a particular chassis is suitable.
Compare the model families
Photo: Agnieszka Kwiecień, Nova · CC BY-SA 4.0579
Aerodynamic highway truckPeterbilt’s 579 is a highway-truck family, distinct from the traditional-style 589 and vocational 567. The useful comparison is the complete tractor specification and cab arrangement, rather than the badge alone. Cab equipment and drivetrain choices can materially change what a particular example offers.
589
Traditional-style highway truckThe Peterbilt 589 is the brand’s traditional-style highway model. It is a separate model designation from the 579, and should also be distinguished from older 389 listings. A traditional appearance does not establish the specifications of the engine, transmission or axles underneath it.
Photo: Oleg Yunakov · CC BY-SA 4.0567
Vocational truckPeterbilt lists the 567 as a Class 8 vocational truck. It is a chassis family for work-focused configurations, rather than one fixed body or payload. A 567 used as a tractor and a 567 carrying a specialized body need different specification discussions.
Photo: Jason Lawrence from New York · CC BY 2.0520
Low-cab refuse truckThe 520 is Peterbilt’s low-cab vocational model associated with refuse collection. The manufacturer lists it in the Class 8 vocational range. Its collection-oriented layout makes it a different comparison from a conventional highway tractor or a general medium-duty delivery truck.
548
Class 8 medium-duty-range truckPeterbilt places the 548 in its medium-duty product range while identifying the chassis as Class 8. That illustrates why a marketing category should not replace the truck’s actual rating. Use the 548 designation to find the platform, then verify the configuration and completed vehicle.
Photo: Mjrmtg · CC BY 4.0537
Class 7 work truckPeterbilt identifies the 537 as a Class 7 member of its medium-duty range. It sits between lighter 535/536 configurations and the Class 8 548 in the manufacturer’s model structure. That family relationship helps narrow a search, but does not specify a completed truck’s payload.
536
Class 6 work truckThe 536 is Peterbilt’s Class 6 medium-duty model, with the manufacturer listing a gross vehicle weight rating up to 26,000 lb. That is a vehicle rating, not a cargo allowance. The body and all permanent equipment must be accounted for before evaluating what it can carry.
535
Class 5 work truckThe 535 is Peterbilt’s Class 5 entry in its medium-duty range. Peterbilt lists this model with a gross vehicle weight rating up to 19,500 lb. It should be compared as a complete work vehicle, because a substantial body or equipment package can use much of the chassis allowance.
Photo: Jason Lawrence from New York · CC BY 2.0220
Cab-over medium-duty truckPeterbilt’s 220 is a cab-over model in Classes 6 and 7. The manufacturer lists ratings from 26,000 to 33,000 lb. Its cab layout distinguishes it from the conventional-hood 535–548 range and is relevant when evaluating body packaging and delivery access.
Bring the exact specification.
The family name helps organize your search. The build sheet, serial number and relevant manufacturer documentation identify what is installed. Compare like-for-like applications and request evidence for cost or performance claims.
Peterbilt manufacturer reference ↗Independent editorial resource. Brand names identify equipment; they do not imply a partnership or endorsement.