Along the highways and byways of North America, one of the most common – and most popular – semi trucks you’ll see hauling freight across the continent is the classic Peterbilt 379. This iconic transport truck – with its long rectangular front end, squared-off radiator grille, tall double exhaust stacks and a driver’s cab that often looks like it has a furrowed brow – looks like it means business.
The customizable and still-reliable Peterbilt 379
For truckers and transport companies, the reliable, fuel- efficient Peterbilt 379 is good for their business, making it a popular choice despite not being in production since 2007. Used Peterbilt 379s are still counted as trusted workhorses that were built to last. But there’s more than just reliability behind their status as kings of the road. They’re also highly customizable, with plenty of aftermarket parts available – from lights and mirrors to fenders and panels and more. You’ll see this truck in everything from classic stock look to fully tricked out.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the advantages a used Peterbilt 379 truck tractor still offers.
Why is the Peterbilt 379 so popular?
One of the big factors in this semi truck’s popularity is its ability to keep on truckin’, for miles and miles. It was – and still is – easy to maintain and repair, and a well-maintained Peterbilt 379 semi truck can run 750,000 miles without a rebuild, and can get up to 1,000,000 miles and more.
Features and specs of the Peterbilt 379
Another big plus for this truck tractor – and part of the reason for its distinctive long hood and front end – was versatility when it came to engine and transmission choices. Buyers could choose from Caterpillar 3176, C-11, C-12, C-13, C-15, C-16 and the 3406-(B,C,E,P and EWS); Cummins Big Cam NTC, N-14, ISM, ISX, ISMe5, ISXe5, and Signature 600 engines; as well as Detroit Diesel 60 series. The truck was also available in tandem and tri-axle configurations.
Fuel-efficiency also put the Peterbilt 379 at the head of the pack, with the aluminum body reducing weight, which in turn reduced fuel consumption.
A truck truly built for the long haul
The 379 offers a wide variety of cab and sleeper options, making it a favorite of long haul truckers who rely on it as their “home on the road”. The truck is available as a day cab or with a full range of fully-kitted out and customizable sleepers from 36” up to 144” ARI.
The Peterbilt 379 in pop culture
Thanks to the Transformer movie, the Peterbilt 379 is forever cemented in pop culture as the truck that “played” Optimus Prime. The 1992 model used in the movie sold at auction several years ago for US$121,000.
How much does a Peterbilt 379 cost?
Prices for a Peterbilt 379 can vary widely depending on factors such as age, mileage, condition, and level of customization. Generally, used Peterbilt 379s range from as low as US$20,000 for older models with high mileage to well over US$100,000 for low-mileage, well-maintained, and mostly custom models. Here’s a breakdown of price ranges* for the Peterbilt 379 by year and axle configuration:
| Year range | Tandem Axle price | Tri-Axle price |
| 1992-1994 | $14,200 – $21,600 | $30,000 – $34,200 |
| 1995-1997 | $15,500 – $23,900 | $35,500 – $39,500 |
| 1998-2000 | $17,100 – $26,100 | $41,000 – $44,700 |
| 2001-2004 | $18,600 – $29,200 | $46,600 – $51,000 |
| 2005-2007 | $20,500 – $31,200 | $50,000 – $90,000 |
While the Peterbilt 379 saw incremental improvements throughout its production run, there are a few notable years when significant updates and enhancements were introduced that can influence pricing:
1994: In 1994, Peterbilt redesigned the cab and sleeper, resulting in improved ergonomics, increased storage capacity, and better sound insulation. This redesign marked a significant improvement in driver comfort.
2000: The 2000 model year brought the introduction of the CAT C-16 engine option, providing increased horsepower and torque for demanding applications. This engine option, along with other improvements, enhanced the truck’s overall performance.
2005: In 2005, Peterbilt updated the electrical system in the 379, improving the truck’s overall reliability and simplifying maintenance. These updates made it easier for owners to diagnose and address any electrical issues that might arise.
2006: The 2006 model year saw the introduction of the Cummins ISX engine with improved fuel efficiency and lower emissions. This engine offered a cleaner and more environmentally friendly option for Peterbilt 379 owners.
These are just a few of the notable years with significant updates to the Peterbilt 379. However, it’s important to remember that even within these years, there could be variations in features and improvements depending on the specific configuration of the truck which’ll reflect on the price.
The successor to the Peterbilt 379
Peterbilt’s replacement for the 379, the Peterbilt 389, wasn’t so much a replacement as it was an upgrade, with a few subtle differences. The 389’s hood is 4” longer and the cab is streamlined for better airflow. The 389 also weighs 150lbs less, has improved headlights for better visibility, has a larger radiator, and comes with the SmartNav infotainment system.
See the full selection of Peterbilt trucks for sale at Ritchie Bros.