Western Star 4900ex or Kenworth W900L

I like my 4900EX, but that's just me.......... (if you get one make sure it has the dual height control valves on the Airtek front axle) and get the ultra high roof stratosphere sleeper....

 

4900ex would definitely be my pick. But I'm biased as I currently drive one. Can't beat the ride and tougher than a steak from the T/A

 

If you're looking to make it a custom truck, there is 100x more aftermarket support for the KW. The sleeper sucks and the cab is narrow.
The Star offers a lot more room, nicer finishes and the dinette option is awesome.

 

star car all the way

 

I've run both. Currently in a 2012 Star. It beats the KW hands down. Space between the seats. Flat floor. You can stand up and walk into the sleeper from either seat. Insulation is far better. Ride is awesome. I don't have the air ride front axle. I do have dual height control valves on the rear suspension.

As far as aftermarket parts go........you can get a lot more "off the shelf" products for the KW. That's important if you like looking like everyone else (think Peterbilt). If you're spec'ing your truck out personally You'll have a good time with the Star. Oh and don't let anyone tell you a Star is heavier. One thing NOT mentioned by the Paccar guys is how a Paccar unit is built vs a Star. An apples to apples spec will get both trucks within lbs. not worth worrying about. Additionally you can get the Star with the Detroit. Just over 200k miles on mine, ZERO issues.

 

You posted this same question in the WS forum, KW forum, and now here.... Predictably, the WS guys will say WS, KW guys will normally say KW, and guys here MAY give an unbiased opinion, but will still be influenced on the truck they currently drive in most cases....
Go buy a Star already! (see what I did there?)

Martin

 

Another vote for the 4900EX. Lots of seat time in both, but I wound up with the Star in my driveway. Flat dash, flat floor, wide cab, huge sleeper. I like mine and wouldn't trade it for much else.

 

Yeah really lol. Somebody in here might say he ought to get a cascadia or volvo even though he made it plain that ain't an option.