AN OLD SCHOOL TRUCK VS 2022 FREIGHTLINER CASCADIA: A COMPARISON OF THE DRIVING EXPERIENCE!

An Old School Truck vs 2022 Freightliner Cascadia: A Comparison of the Driving Experience. In this video, Dave takes the new Cascadia for a spin as well his 2004 Peterbilt 379, an old school truck, and examines the differences in the actual driving experience. Interesting comparison!
After driving each truck, Dave takes a look at:
- Automatic vs. Manual
- Digital Dash vs.
- Long Hood vs Drop Hood
- Cab Noise
- Ride Quality.
- Jake Brake
- Trailer Brake Placement
- Turning Radius
- Electronic Sensors
- Sleeper Berth Doors
- Longevity and Warranty
- Engine Strength
***************************************************************************
Special thank you to Shell Rotella® Heavy Duty Engine Oil. Learn more about where to buy Shell Rotella® at bit.ly/STrucking
***************************************************************************
LOVE SMART TRUCKING AND WANT MORE CONTENT?
HERE'S HOW!
→ SUBSCRIBE TO SMART TRUCKING KZbin!
Get loads of truck driver videos, live stream and trucking industry updates!
/ @smarttrucking
→ BECOME A MEMBER!
♥ Access special perks and cool stuff on our Channel.
♥ Get content that you won’t get anywhere else!
JUST CLICK THE JOIN BUTTON UNDER ANY OF OUR VIDEOS!
OR
CLICK HERE!
/ @smarttrucking
→ LET’S CONNECT!
♥www.Smart-Truc... (WEBSITE)
♥ / smarttrucking
♥ / smarttrucking
♥ / smart_trucking
♥ www.instagram/s...
→ Sponsorship + Business Inquiries? You bet. Go here and tell us more! [e-mail]
→ OUR MUSIC IS ALL SOURCED FROM KZbin
Music: From KZbin Library
Song: Atlanta
#roadtorecovery #runsonrotella #sponsored

[@SmartTrucking]

Good Day to You, Big Strapper. Thanks for dropping by to check out today's upload. What are your thoughts on the 2 trucks we compared? Which would you prefer, given the comparison, the Cascadia or the Old Pete? Love to hear your thoughts. Special thanks to GP Transco for their generosity in allowing Dave to test drive one of their new rides.

[@EZNowTrucker]

I'm 28 and I'm not a fan of the new trucks. I was trained on and got my license in a early 90s Mack with a 13 speed. I prefer the older trucks. There was a case of a new Peterbilt with similar safety gadgets as the Cascadia. Something malfunctioned and basically dynomited the truck hauling a load of steel. Almost took the drivers life.

[@jamesberryman751]

I only run trucks in our repair facility yard, but even there, I am not at all a fan of trucks that try to think for themselves. I've had the automatic trucks try to shift right when I'm backing a heavy trailer over our bit of a door sill, and it feels like you're gonna drop the damn driveshaft. Also been stuck on an icy yard because of being unable to select my own gear. Old school rocks, and I love the older Petes like yours. Also have a love for Western Stars.

[@MarkSmith-dh5dh]

Old school trucks would be my first choice but the cascade would drive smoothly and quiet! Then my biggest pet peeve would be these automatic tractors to each is own! I've driven an automatic again prefer old school manual! #keepontruckin 😉👍🏼💯

[@MarkSmith-dh5dh]

Hmm! Honestly new drivers couldn't handle his old school truck because they can't shift manual transmission (wuzzy automatics)! 😉👍🏼💯

[@thomasglynn2282]

I learned to drive on a 1956 hardnosed LJ mack with a 237hp 675ENDT and a 5x4 Mack quad box tranny, boy was that truck fun to drive!

[@longjump08]

Did anyone actually think he was going to choose the freightliner over his truck? Hahahaha

[@EASTCOASTIMPERIAL]

Haha!!! Hell no. He’s driving an automatic!! 😂😂

[@Nikowalker007]

Of course not 😅That Pete is a real truck unlike that Cascadia which was designed promarily for the 1st time drivers. Swift, England, Western Express, Schneider buy them in thousands every year so of course that Cascadia should be as "idiot proof" ( all those electronic driving nannies) and fuel efficient ( automatic transmission) as possible... 😀👍. For many it's going to be the 1st time truck

[@Dwade-nk9wc]

Lol. No. Old school truckers like old school trucks. I don't blame them.

[@klaidenmorad103]

of curse not. none of old timer drivers will not do like my dad that always think his old mack is the best and can bit all new trucks .😁😁😁

[@sc4538]

There simply is NO comparison, old school traditional truck any day of the week, I love the whistle of your Cat engine.

[@hammerslammer3006]

That square hood and that yella motor will always beat those ugly bumpy mutts...

[@JB-ut7mu]

Exactly . Aerodynamics of a BRICK , 5.5mpg vs 8.5, waaay more louder so when you drive 25 miles with your turn signal on you can just say your deaf . Less maneuverable so that you dont have too easy life , more vibrations with stiffer suspension cause you definitely like when your back hurts , manual transmission because you smarter and super professional then dumb computer which saves you money on fuel , smaller and worse thought out sleeper because who needs comfort right 😉?! , THE ONLY ONE THING WHERE YOU BRICK BOYS BEAT MODERN TRUCK IN IS PARTS COST but dont worry , you will start to extinct if fuel prices will go up lol. Ooh yeah i had w900 if you say i just never had a brick , those were the worse days of my life having that pile of shhhhhhhhhhhhhh 10.

[@keithfarley15]

New trucks are easier to drive older trucks are more comfortable to drive but it’s a tool old or new use whatever you’re more efficient with and that’s the new ones for me

[@frankcolumbo9615]

@@hammerslammer3006 not in the eyes of the insurance providers, companies and governments.

[@Scatpack-gw9kb]

2022 T680 as entered the chat

[@aircooledhead]

IDK about ride/comfort, but your old school trucks sure LOOKS better! 😍

[@docsmitty4]

So you prefer a tractor that is dirty and gross under the hood?

[@robreesor5011]

@@docsmitty4 I would yes...but then I prefer the older trucks to this newer plastic junk.

[@Avg0092]

And sounds better

[@TheThreethumbsup]

Sounds a lot better too!

[@chaseelliott8578]

@@docsmitty4 I'd rather have an old dirty engine under the hood, then a new truck with a ton of computers that can malfunction and cost lots of money. As opposed to little to no computers, with less of a chance to malfunction

[@richardmcavoy6413]

Hands down the old Pete wins. To me, reliability is paramount. Everything else is secondary.

[@brandonroe8308]

As long as you take care of your truck, they ride much better too.

[@LGPanthers1]

these 6's all seem to be as reliable as the older ones; not sure that's a hill to die on

[@deanlutgert8292]

My Arcadia is way more reliable than my 379

[@devo3243]

Maintenance. I work on trucks, and the difference between a new one hitting a million ks and one not is almost always the owner. Shit oil, never changing parts and having shit mechanics work on your trucks is easily the three biggest issues with modern trucks.

[@SoCal780]

As you know, Dave, as an “old school” driver like you (but not quite as old, haha!) I prefer the manual transmission, a powerful engine, and a shiny hood to look down and over. That being said, it is human nature to prefer what we are familiar with. A new guy who has only driven a newer truck and never experienced the joy of driving a 379 Pete, would more than likely prefer the newer truck for that very reason. And yes, even though I now drive a Volvo (but it’s an older one!) I did drive a 379 Pete (from 2001-2003) and pull reefers hauling produce and dairy products all over the 11 western states, there is NOTHING like driving a 379! I loved it! It was green, it was powerful, had a 13 speed, and it was a lot of fun to drive! I had never even been inside a Volvo at that point. It was the first truck that I had really ever driven “over the road” in. I’d haul ass doing 75 mph across AZ, NM, CO, and TX and that thing just purred like a kitten. Awesome truck for sure and I really developed a serious appreciation for them early in my career.

[@markm0000]

My first truck was a Cascadia Evolution, then I had a Volvo 770 13 speed, then a Cascadia with a 10 speed, and now I learned my damn lesson and bought the right truck for the job. Freightliner Classic XL with a souped up fully rebuilt Detroit 12.7L.

[@kiplynch3625]

Old school for me all day long. Love changing gears and love the look of the old school trucks. They have character while the new trucks all look the same.

[@SmartTrucking]

I agree!

[@6582rg]

I agree, but the old one’s won’t make you money in today’s world of ridiculous fuel prices. The automated transmission is able to find the right gear better than any experienced driver for the best mpg. I’ll take the old one all day long for a show truck, but the money truck is the Cascadia unfortunately.

[@wizard_of_poz4413]

For me it's the opposite

[@katb8951]

I've had my 99 FLD120 since it was two years old. It has a 60 series Detroit backed up by a 10 spd. With 76,000lbs I can climb a 6% grade faster than most of these newer trucks. I'll stick with my 20+ yrs old old school truck any day. No Def or eld or any other three initial things in it. After reading most of the comments I wanted to add, and I'm sure Dav, you'll attest to this, in a "old school" truck when it comes to break downs with older trucks you can't swing a dead cat without hitting someone who has the part or belt or hose you need to get moving. I carry enough tools and spare air bags, alternator, turbo, hoses etc to make the repairs on the side of the road and get going again as apposed to calling a hook and setting in a hotel for a week, or two, while the dealership garage hunts down parts in China. My grandfather who taught me to drive told me "if ya can't fix it ya shouldn't be driving it" and I live by that.

[@MA-hc6mb]

UK driver here. Between the mirrors and picking something in the cab for your 'line', the hood being missing isn't an issue once you're used to it. Just a different skillset. The advantage is much better forward visibility!

[@cadelgent1617]

but you dont have a crumple zone

[@nikose34]

my father is an old retired trucker here in europe. he finished his carreer in a volvo made in 1989. manual, no egr or pdf, no electronics at all. the truck was reliable, never had any major issues and brought a lot of money in our household. that's the most important thing right?! after retirement, he returned his professional drivers license and never drove a truck. he only drives to the market and back or when he goes for holidays with mom. my cousin is a trucker. he drives for a company and they bought the 2020 volvo fh16 with all the possible extras, like automatic gearbox etc. he asked my father if he wanted to go with him for a trip about 700 kms. my father when he returned he never stopped talking about how truck technology is advanced. the silence inside, the automatic gearbox with double clutch. he told me that he was ready to drive a truck again. he was much impressed. new technologies don't always mean better machines but surely they make our lives better.

[@SmartTrucking]

That's a nice story to here! Thanks for writing in and say hi to your dad for me!

[@TennesseeTrout419]

Man you just can't beat that sound and look of that pete! Old school all day over new.

[@ericcapek3805]

New Freightliners/Volvos/Internationals seem to be designed by accountants for unskilled flip-flop wearing steering wheel holders. Can’t shift, maintain their lane, read the traffic, etc, then a Cascadia is perfect. Problem is, no driver should have problems shifting, maintaining speed, having lane discipline, reading traffic, etc. Each time we lower the bar, we hurt our reputation.

[@davidmass5480]

Couldn't have said it better myself! Agree 1000%!

[@bobinthewest8559]

I hate to break it to you, but... “the bar” has been lying on the floor in a dusty corner somewhere for at least the past decade, at minimum... (since the 90’s in my opinion honestly)

[@tallmike6598]

Well said.. Lets dumb the industry down a little more to get the under qualified in the drivers seat.

[@SuperAmir39]

Very very true

[@tcloudy]

If it’s got tires on it, I can drive it. Been driving since I was a kid on the farm in the 80’s, CDL for 15 years. Both have their pros and cons. I like the looks and sound of the older trucks but prefer the interior comfort and fuel economy of the newer. To each his own I guess. It’s funny that people have this stereotype of anyone driving an automatic as if they’re inferior in some sort of way 🤣. Just because someone is in an automatic, doesn’t mean they can’t drive a 10, 13, or 18sp. I myself am trying to find the best of both. Looking for a 2007 Freightliner Columbia with a 12.7 Detroit 10sp

[@giddygoat2769]

I love driving my '85 F-150 4 speed on Saturday, shifting gives a sense of control, but after a day of that I also LOVE getting back into my nice smooth car and letting it do all the work! Both are winners.

[@matthewmoore54]

I've driven both too,, I'll take the older truck as well, I think Dave was being pretty fair because he said some good things about the Freightliner like the viability was better and the turning was better, he gave pros and cons to both trucks! That's fair....

[@isiahgatson6125]

The Pete only have like 2 cons and that's the turning and the dash bored

[@sebastiangarla8558]

I'd have to agree w most people's comments on here. OLD SCHOOL all the way baby ! I'll stick w my 550 6NZ CAT. '03 KW - W900L. Got 1.880,000 on her and she still rips ! 😁

[@TheColbles2009]

Dave I could probably watch you drive for hours, that’s real driving right there

[@TimRHillard]

I don't like the safety sensors, because I feel like drivers will come to rely too much on them. Instead of checking rhe mirror, just let the lane assist tell me its clear, that kinda thing. Or the cruise with auto slow down. Those systems can't have a 'feeling' you are about to get cut off, but I know drivers do. Very seldom do I get cut off, that I don't first, feel it coming. Spidey sense is tingling I guess. But if you rely on the system to slow you down, then you miss that second of braking you might need. It might not be your fault, and now have video evidence, but what if you smash a mini van with kids in the back. Being not at fault will not help you sleep at night, for the rest of your life.

[@Nobody_1776]

Exactly right, at the end of the day, the driver must be the sensor, and cannot allow himself to fail, where electronics can and do.

[@skrapenpennies9947]

I'll ride for hours in my 88 pete with 3406b cat just listening to the engine purr. I just love to hear those straight pipes singing.

[@wayneblue5370]

You just can't beat the ride of a a longer wheel base, or the view from my seat. Nothing better than looking out the window and seeing that long hood. I completely agree it helps in all weather conditions to know exact where u are in the lane. Great video

[@Backyardmech1]

The new truck may be more “efficient,” but in the long haul it’s “efficiently” sitting in the shop, costing more money on repairs, than the non-government reg lip smooching rig. As long as the air is clean and diesel truck huff out all the bad stuff on limp mode and Regen every few months.

[@garycolligan7890]

Thank you for not only your comparisons, but also your service to all of us, new, wanna be trucker, or experienced, in your helps in the trucking community.

[@danielpercent5434]

I just like the newer trucks for the comfortability/ space in the cabin, and the looks of them. (I always loved the bulky edgy look of the freightliners and internationals) but in terms of reliability, I know full well that the old-school kenworths and peterbuilts are top dogs.

[@fatfatviking]

one thing I will say, Cascadia does have a unique feature that dude didn't tell him about. Going downhill with a load on, roll on your set speed drop the Jake To the first setting and press the cruise control button. You'll get a downhill assist. And it will not I repeat will not get more than one mile an hour over to set speed no matter how steep the hill no matter what your weight. you don't have to touch the brakes at all. I ran 250000 mi before I had to change brake pads (manufacturer pads) because of that. it seemed to work the best when it was set on one of the 5-mi marks. 15, 25 35, etc. But yeah everybody loves the aesthetics in the old school truck gears the sound the Jake just better

[@SmartTrucking]

Impressive!

[@WillBilly.]

The lane sensors get really annoying when your hauling overside loads and it dosnt shut off for 8 hours

[@leonrawls892]

You can turn off. Yes it will turn back on automatically. BUT if you take off cover and unclip camera so it is misalign camera then turn off it will stay OFF.

[@bobinthewest8559]

@@leonrawls892 ... shortly after we got the one I drive, someone else (so I can’t say how it’s done) got into the settings, and it gives only the visual (in dash) warnings ever since.

[@location_florida]

If you can find the sensor, in volvos it's in the bumper, just pull the wire off just enough so it's not connected and it will stop, but in some trucks when you do this, you loose your cruise control.

[@Dwade-nk9wc]

They should really have an override for this.

[@kellypatterson8506]

I agree with the safety features, mine really does not have any, but I've had them in the past, the best ones I seen is where the company sets them up where the driver can put them n2 a passive mode, or turn them off when needed.

[@gabrielhansen5782]

I bought an older prostar and I like that it doesn't have all that computer stuff on the dash. The main reason is I like it fairly dark in my cab while I'm driving at night. I feel to much light in my cab reduces my vision.

[@apolloniaaskew9487]

The majority of aerodynamic truck sales go to the mega carriers, while the majority of old school rigs are o/o and small trucking companies with less than 50 trucks. The mega carriers worry about fuel economy and the small trucking companies worry about keeping customers .

[@thatkingdavid1819]

Old school just have a legendary look to it. That will never get old. Piece of art. 🖼️

[@JP-jm9fy]

I agree with you on all the signals. I drive a similar Cascadia and these trucking companies say they want you focused more on the road and that’s all well and good but when bells and whistles are going off your paying attention to those. Some of them offer a override on all those alarms but most companies pass on them. I initially trained in a manual but with most of the companies going to all autos and phasing out manuals I gotten kinda used to them. Good video though I look forward to the next one.

[@mrj-charles6383]

I find it enjoyable shifting gears. If you know how to shift even in a fleet spec truck you can outrun an auto fleet spec truck. My main issue with Automatics is I always forget to put it in neutral when I stop. At least with a manual I always make sure it is in neutral before shutting down and setting the brakes.

[@warrenholmar1129]

I did that on test after the reverse left the truck in gear.... as I'm used to a manual....

[@matthewmayfield5982]

Old school trucks are still the best. Especially a 379 Pete with a CAT under the hood.

[@0873sp]

I'm with you Dave on the older truck. These new trucks maybe more fuel efficient but IMO, the more electronic shit that gets put onto these trucks, the more likely you will have a problem down the road. Not to mention, all this plastic doesn't do anything for me. I love chrome and steel!!! That's why I love my Harley too!! Nothing like that Harley low end torque and vibrations that these metric bikes don't and never will have.

[@bobinthewest8559]

I don’t disagree with you... But no matter how we feel about it... classic trucks are going away... and we’re not too far off from self driving trucks either.

[@pstone0193]

Thank you for giving a good, honest appraisal of both trucks. I've driven similar and I agree with so much of what you said. New trucks have some advantages, but what trucker doesn't love the classics? If you learned on a manual, you'll have that panic reaching for gears once a day at least!

[@mctransportation9831]

Automatic are better for large OTR fleets that can't be picky about who their drivers are.

[@robreesor5011]

Hell I get out of my old truck jump in my f150 and find myself reachin for the clutch or shifter now and then 🤣

[@mightyjoeyoung9741]

As a newer driver (8 months), I can drive stick, but 95%+ of the trucks on the road are automatic and I prefer it. The slow acceleration is annoying sometimes, but when it's time for me to get a new truck, I want a Tesla. I believe it will be the best of both worlds and more. But I much prefer the turn radius of my 2017 international prostar, which probably has the same wheel base as the cascadia. There's better visibility for making tight turns. I use the spot mirrors for lane orientation and I just have a good sense of it naturally anyways or checking the mirrors. I've seen guys at stop lights with a peterbilt and there can be a whole car in front of you and not even see it under the hood and I don't really like that you have to guess the distance there with tight turns and stopping or have the extra room. I feel like I'd be getting out and looking a lot in lots where I have just enough room to spot spin. For the long hauls, I agree that the Peterbilt is better, but I think the benefits are more of a preference and negligible. I think that's the easiest part of the job and the newer trucks still get the job done, especially if you can keep your momentum. Accelerating and going up hills slower is annoying, but as long as it gets you there. And the way my international is geared, if I'm already going 55-65 mph and have the momentum, I can keep it that speed as long as I don't drop below 55 mph unless it's an unusually steep grade and I'm max weight. I think the newer trucks have much more significant benefits, they're more sensitive on cuts and backing, but it quickly fine tunes your senses and is much more forgiving when working in tight spaces. The thing I will say is that I don't think the transmission will hold up long term just from backing, if you're making a tighter cut while max weight. Just backing into a tight parking spot one time my truck was beeping and screaming 'CA' clutch abuse and then shuts up after I turn it off. So when it comes down to it, the newer trucks are much more forgiving for city driving which is a big help for newer drivers who have to fuck around and find out sometimes in tight spots. And the peterbilt is more comfortable over the road, but I personally think driving on the highway is the easiest part of the job, but just the most time consuming. Actually I had a semi truck driver road rage at me the other day and get on his phone to record me and started swerving in my lane and trying to get me to pull over off 80 west. I pissed him off, maybe I shouldn't have made the move I did, but I definitely don't think I was in the wrong either and I think it will highlight some differences between driver mentalities or maybe between sticks and automatics. Not sure if he was driving a stick, but I've had other situations where guys driving a stick are VERY reluctant to slow down when they should. He was driving an older Volvo btw. Not sure if those are stick, it looked older than a 2010 so I assumed it was. I was merging onto the highway and there was a semi merging ahead of me who didn't really appear to be flooring it and was going slower than I would of liked. I wanted to pick up speed before we hit the hill so that I wasn't going 25 mph up the mountain. I check to see if anyone is coming on a straight away behind me, the closest guy is no closer than a half a mile to a mile away (the road rager). So I go to pass the semi merging in front of me, I thought maybe I'd be able to pass him in time, and if not, the worst case scenario is that the guy behind me would have to slow down a little bit and be a little pissed. Funny thing is there was a construction zone a mile ahead over the hill, he would of had to slow down anyways. So I commit to the pass, and I'm 3/4's of the way done with it and going maybe 55mph when the rager a mile back gets on my ass tailgating me refusing to slow down from 70mph. Plenty of time to slow down, but I get it, I would be pissed too, but boo hoo, life's not always fair and I'd be eating a bigger dick if I didn't get over 55mph on that hill than he would having to slow down 15 mph. But I was at least aware and considered his position before I went to pass. It's not like I went and cut him off. That's when he did all that crap, recording me, flipping me off, honking is air horn, telling me to pull over and swerving into my lane like he was going to run me off the road and I just ignored him and stared at him like I'd kill him. I'm 6'8" and 330 pounds btw, and I'm not fat. He didn't want to fight me lol. Not sure if he was on stick and reluctant to down shift, definitely wanted to keep speed up the hill, but another stick driver was coming up from behind me on a state highway where I was accelerating with a max load from a dead stop at a red light, and he could see me stopped at the red light, but it turned green before he caught up to my slow ass. Well goes to pass me aggressively and seem pretty pissed he had to slow down and move around a car and passive aggressively flashed his hazards at me as if it was a necessity for me to turn my hazards on coming off a red light. It's a courtesy, not a requirement. Some of these guys driving stick act so entitled and expect everyone to cater to them or take way too much pride in the fact that they drive stick. That's great, but it's not a necessity anymore, and for a lot of people it's a hindrance. Why make the job harder than it needs to be? Also, pay attention and slow down when you need to. Down shift before you shift that stick right up your ass where your head is.

[@WillCarter1976]

I think an old saying really fits here. "If you make a machine that even an idiot can use, only an idiot will use it."

[@GunsHarleysUSA]

I totally agree with your assessment of these two trucks. Old School Trucks are still a step above the the new kids on the block..!

[@adrianbradshaw4956]

These new automatics are terrible. Lost count of how many times it’s left me in the middle of the intersection while it figures out what it wants to do.

[@rogerpenske2411]

No question that there is an adjustment. Climbing into a new truck because gauges knobs switches and etc. are not where you have gotten your brain situated from your previous vehicle. You also have to go through quite a few menus to set things up the way that you want: such a showing outside temperature,, Showing a temperature alarm at a certain point, minus at 38°F. Miles per gallon instant miles per gallon, trip and leg odometers English and metric, various pressures and temperatures, and all that needs to be set up in a way that’s comfortable for you in in a sequence that’s comfortable for you. Once you get used to the automatic transmission and where to put The Jake break setting, and then drive it for a week, you’ll be a lot more comfortable with it. As for setting up your centerline, Dave, when you get into the situation, your brain is just going to figure out a different reference point, that’s all. Once again it’s just a matter of getting familiar with it

[@cybersludge]

I only started driving last year and even as a new driver, I have so many gripes about the new freightliners.

[@metalhead7181]

Nothing beats the big hood Pete's and KWs I used to drive them back in the 90s and early 2000 now I myself am driving a Cascadia auto shift. I sure miss driving a real truck. Great video sir. You got a nice 379 by the way.👍

[@wannabeangler]

I agree with you 1000%! I drove a new International with the slope hood and I had to jack the seat up to orient the front of the truck. I had an old Classic XL and seeing my hood brought a sense of calm to driving in all aspects. Better ride too with the steers out front. I like long or snub nose compared to these new trucks for overall ride. AT is nice in town, but 13 or 18 is the only way to go.

[@alphadriver104]

The camera was shakier in the old truck and much noisier (I know the windows were open, no A/C in the old one?🤔😜😀). The complaints, differences don't sound big deal to me at all. The only thing I don't like about the new trucks is those annoying lane departure, front collision crap (you're supposed to watch the road anyway). No truck is perfect, old or new. If the old ones were so good every old trucker should have been a billionaire by now. The best truck is the one that's paid off and as new as possible with warranty on it.😀✌🏻

[@SmartTrucking]

The comparison was truly to compare the ride, not profitability. Those were just quick mentions but I hear you on that one and I agree.

[@badgermoon9229]

We would be millionaires except we spent our money on women and whiskey. I am with Dave on this. 2015 W900 glider. I like it more the longer I own it. Looks and runs as nice as the day I bought it new.

[@justanothertrucker7856]

It works though. Every truck driver who tails me is in an older truck.

[@jcsully]

The fact that you require a warranty on the truck should tell you everything about it's reliability. There isn't a new truck on the road as reliable as a well cared for pre emission truck. Period.

[@wiltonfarleysr.7049]

Old school beats new school any day

[@rezzgoatrising1829]

I’ve been working on trucks for past 20 years. 379 all the way.

[@badgermoon9229]

At least us old guys with our conventional hoods don't have to worry about it looking like we're running a vacume cleaner if we have to pull up a few times to get parked.

[@darrellkolb1683]

Being Old School myself I 100% agree with most analogies. On board computers, auto trans., Lane position sensors, have all been a huge down fall to trucking. There are so many sensors combined with the clean burn exhaust filters, that all fail, you can't keep the trucks running on the road. Wheels turning = $$. Two things I noticed. First thing I learned was leave that trolly trailer brake alone. Not good for on the road use. Second most old school guys float the gears not double clutching. A great point was the hood does help you in pointing down the road. Just like a tractor in a corn row. But even with no hood you still may not see the fool that dives infront of you last minute. Happy Trailer Trucking 10-Roger

[@cobraspottedwolf8791]

I drive a day cab single axle cascadia and they are terrifying on ice. They are so twitchy.

[@alex7289]

All day cabs feel that way to me. Pulling doubles with a day cab is stressful.

[@dchawk81]

I have a tandem axle 185" wheel base day cab. It's not twitchy at all but it does rock the cab a lot in the wind.

[@jbagsz1234]

We have a handful of 10 speed standard shift cascadias single axel day cab trucks, I personally don’t mind the ride, it’s very easy to shift we actually use them for cdl training because of this and they are pretty reliable I have to say whenever I have to run one to the shop it’s usually a pretty quick repair more like a day or two. Power is lacking though. We also have tandem axle Volvo’s (day cab) I particularly really enjoy this truck because of the comfort, the way it’s geared this thing flys! It is an auto in which the way it shifts is less desirable. Now when they go to the shop your looking at a month lol

[@LyfovRyan51]

Yes, on the road in New Zealand for 40 plus years. Both have a lot to offer. It's up to one to adapt. My personal Ute is a modern Ute, but with a lot of old school ideas. Modern auto boxes can't see the road conditions ahead. So greatful for my experiences.

[@mertcalc3259]

What about Volvo's I-See technology? Give Volvo a try

[@rickshaw296]

2 most important things about a truck; Fuel economy, reliability. The rest is just personal preference.

[@SmartTrucking]

This was a video to compare the 'driving experience' and what the ride is like for the driver, rather than a deep dive into the fuel economy etc. We're saving that for another video.

[@rickshaw296]

@@SmartTrucking That would be great if you made a video going over some charts. From what I can tell Volvo and Freightliner are neck and neck with efficiency, and the others are left in the dust. I can't get good numbers on reliability and real world breakdowns however.

[@RaFa-ov2en]

@@SmartTrucking but then it's not a fair comparison, as you mentioned, one is company "specs" the other is Owner, and the chair in the Cascadia is one of if not the cheapest they come with from manufacturer, the chair makes a HUUUUGE difference. 🤷🏻‍♂️🙂

[@SoCal780]

@@rickshaw296 Volvo and FreightShaker may be neck & neck in efficiency but they are not even close in ride and comfort. Volvos are smooth and quiet and they handle much better. They are also more spacious. I sit at a table and eat my meals and do my paperwork. In a Freightliner, you sit on your bed with no backrest and your table is a pullout platform that slides out of a low level cabinet. No thanks! I’ll take my restaurant booth type seating every time over that nonsense. Four people can sit in here comfortably and enjoy a nice hot meal. Done it many times. 👍

[@rickshaw296]

@@SoCal780 wow! Good to hear that. The VNL looks like a sweet ride.

[@dutchman2506]

36 years on the job,I would say new school,drive a 2017 Peterbilt,love my truck,if I can upgrade with mirror cam's it will be on my truck. Always tray to be up to date and not stuck in the past.

[@MrFriday83]

I seen you cheesin when you got back into your truck. I think it would be interesting to watch if you got ahold of Volvo/mack Peterbilt, Kenworth see if there is a new truck out there that you'll like.

[@matthewmoore54]

Or put Dave in a brand new 579 Pete (owner operator spec with platinum interior)

[@SVGIN]

Those new trucks are more better they have the comfort of otr.....those old trucks are to uncomfortable....fuck thst shit

[@fatfatviking]

Hauled new tractors piggyback to dealerships. Volvos are highly comfortable but highly underpowered. Mack's are still kidney busters but all about Work! Oddly, highly Overpowered. Which is weird because mack /Volvo use the same engine and trannies. Internationals are the shits. Engines sound like they are gonna drop a rod right out of factory. Freightliners are right in the middle. Didnt haul KW or Pete's so cant say. Oh fuel! Volvo best, freightliner, international, Mack. And Mack's gobble it!

[@MrStingray186]

My 16 Pete is 290" with an ISX 600 hp / 2050 tq , 23 gauges (no nav), 18sp, through 3.42 gears with 24.5 tires. 75 mph @ 1500 in the big hole just purring. I run Fontana Ca to Denver every week for the last 4 years and like Dave said I too use my hood in ice and snow to feel the lane. Today's docks flat ass suck with 290"wb (6' longer than most FL and Volvos) I just set up early and know where to pivot the tandems. Running the Rockies weekly a long-wheelbase 389 with 600 and an 18sp is the way to go able to pull Vail and Loveland passes with ease. Thanks, Dave for another great video

[@6582rg]

I agree with you on your conclusion. The Cascadia is an aerodynamic, fuel efficient machine, and that’s what a new driver needs to make money nowadays. Even the new Peterbilt’s are all digital dashes with smart wheels and smoother lines. They have to be to compete. That said, there’s nothing that compares to the old school rigs like yours. Keep her rolling down the road. Great video.

[@jonathanjuillerat9831]

I have driven both a company cascadia and a ungoverned rental. The rental is a completely different animal it truly is impressive. You also have different driving modes on the cascadia which most companies put in economy mode which guts the truck. Also the truck you where driving where an upper trim model they do have analog dash and a much smaller dash cam and no lane departure system.

[@kevinlesch9656]

I grew up in a 69 international loadstar cabover 1600. When I quit college I worked for a building supply company/ lumber yard. They had a mid 90s international 4700 or 4900. First time I sat behind the wheel it felt the exact same as that old cabover! The angle of the steering wheel and position of the seat was unreal! Still miss my 72 KW!

[@MidwayGuy]

If you have whisker mirrors on an aero truck you can use those as you would a long hood, to guide you in your lane position and spot drift in the snow/ice.

[@gerardoppewal372]

Just a few comments from across the big pond.... I drive a 420 HP Volvo 12 speed I-shift around town with GVW up to 110.000 lbs. Yes, that's legal in the Netherlands. Before this one, I drove a DAF(Packard) with a manual, synchronized 16-speed ZF box. Being around town all day the automatic takes a noticeable load off. I wouldn't trade back. About the dashboard: You have to monitor all the old school gauges, but you don't have to monitor the computer screens. Whenever something runs out of range, that item will take the foreground in a blinking fashion. Can't miss it. About the gears: These new engines have max torque from 900-1500 rpm, so they make do with less gears, mostly 12 will do. Therefore, at any given situation but cruise (both in top gear), you'll be in a different gear because your rig must do more revs for the same power (mine does 1150 rpm for 52 m/h). I too noticed the difference between the DAF 16 speed and the new Volvo 12 speed. Nice video. Keep 'm coming...

[@bradleysmith6442]

That digital dash would be a big no to me.

[@Nikowalker007]

Agree . Much harder to read it at daylight because of all the reflection on the screen

[@christineluke6429]

Good to see that i wasn't the only one

[@raymondward1009]

Glad you finally got to see what us new(er) guys are having to deal with Dave. The DD15 is actually one of the most powerful engines on the road with 505 Horse Power and a 15 liter displacement. All the DD15's I've driven have been set in ECONOMY-Mode with RPM rev-limiting etc, as you put it "fuel-squeezer", all that stuff is automated by the trucks ECM and it can be changed with software adjustments. Panic Breaking is also done automatically by the truck (sometimes at in-appropriate times!), I don't think I've ever used the trailer/trolley break, I believe I tried it once and smoke started coming from the breaks so I never touched it again since.

[@MidwayGuy]

Automatics always require an adjustment period. Anyone coming from a manual will hate em at first, but you learn how to manage the auto shifts and can control, or at least anticipate, what gear you'll be in based on your speed and throttle position and turning angle.

[@ericbrule4465]

Gotta agree with you on that one. Went from a manual to an automated. I simply leave mine in manual mode.

[@Leonmiller407]

Great video. My first four years were in a Cascadia. I learned on a 10 speed, before they went automatic. I then spent two years driving automatics. What I disliked was the hesitation for the truck to take off or slow down coming on to an exit ramp. They’re horrible on ice and snow even mud the poor drives just spin. I do miss the turning radius backing was easier. I deliver to California a lot and making turns is horrible. I’m in a KW W900 B. I need an airport to just make a u-turn. The ride is way better in this truck and it has so much more power. I like an 18 speed better I think it’s easier to shift than an automatic performs so much better. Freightliners are great trucks to get started it covers the basics.

[@zagrix]

That old school truck will still be going in 10 years. Idk about that cascadia

[@justint345]

The computer in the newer truck will put you on the hook of a wrecker real quick

[@dronetrucker]

True

[@ferdnerkel]

The worst part of the auto shift is the violent nature of it at low speeds. You need a neck brace to deal with the uncontrolled and uncontrollable whip like jerks, and snaps. The cascadia is inherently unstable in the roll axis too. To stay in the seat on a left turn you need to be belted in and have the armrest down or you'll end up sitting on the floor at 10 mph.

[@lanceallday647]

My Cascadia Ten years old and running strong

[@bobinthewest8559]

That cascadia might still be going then too... It might be on its second engine, fifth transmission and thirteenth computer by then... But, it MIGHT still be going

[@richardm7274]

I drive a 2020 cascadia and I just bought a 2005 Freightliner classic to start my own business and I love it ... there's nothing better than old school trucks....

[@HaulingBonez]

Those hoods would be almost impossible where I deliver, new drivers should know a lot of trucking is delivering to way to small receivers, clearing obstacles by inches

[@amish733]

Old school all the way! My company rig has been a 08 W900L, C15 CAT with an 18 speed. Sadly this weekend will be my last ride in it. My company is retiring the ol girl and putting me in a new Western Star with an awfulmattic...

[@cobra6953]

My sympathies driver

[@johnlupucyjr.7675]

I agree with your observations 110% old school is the best school hands down. Too much technology in the vehicle can create a hike in cost and problems and repairs later on down the road.

[@zenofthemoment]

Maybe an unpopular opinion, but something to consider. For someone like me, new to trucking, grew up with computers and cell phones, using and living with the new tech is very comfortable. I’ve never driven a truck without the Jakes on the stalk. I use them more than the trailer brake, so having them close is handy. Monitoring and managing the dash comes naturally to me. I manually shift my auto Pete quite a bit, particularly on hills to keep it in the power. So other than having something to hold and play with, I don’t miss the stick. If you spent a couple few years in the new truck and gave it a chance to feel second nature, I wonder if your opinion might change in some of those points. But I’m looking at what it takes to start up an o/o for myself, and the mechanical nuts and bolts nature and reliability of the old truck, for me, would have to trump any modern comforts. If it’s broke it don’t make money, and as a new business that wouldn’t be an option. Interesting video. Appreciate your good faith take on it. Cheers!

[@ryanv3751]

The new ones are nice but seem like they are made to be disposable as opposed to rebuildable.

[@masterfurb1]

So is every single thing made in the world today.

[@cmbambafu7625]

Was sitting in a red light one day with a long hood beside me. He left some room between him and the car infront of him. Somehow a lady was able to sneak her small car in that room. When the light turned green the long hood proceeded to push the car until it turned sideways. It took him a while to realize that there was a car infront of him.

[@SmartTrucking]

That is one distinct disadvantage of the long hoods. There is a big blindspot out front.

[@brucewilson5087]

Old school cool!! Wins every time.

[@bobinthewest8559]

The first thing you have to learn when you switch to the cascadia (from anything like your Pete)... is to stop playing the base drum on the floorboard with your left foot. I still do this occasionally, even after about 420,000 miles in the cascadia. A few (FYI) points: The lane departure and other warnings can be set to “visual warning only”, which is far less distracting. The programming of shifting, gear selection, etc... is set up to get to the highest gear possible, as soon as possible... rather than to maximize rpm for acceleration and such. It will skip gears constantly (sometimes even skipping two gears) leaving you rather “flat” in the power band. Using “manual” mode (while still not the same as a full manual) will give you back SOME control over this. I use this whenever I’m loaded, to retain control over the transmission on hills, so that I can choose the gear, and WHEN to make the downshift... and prevent “gear hunting”, which ALWAYS causes a shedding of 2 to 4 mph off your road speed. You have to remember that, the truck can not “see forward” as the driver can, and as a result, it generally recognizes a hill, much too late. The jake brake “means business” on the cascadia... and selecting 1, 2, or 3, ... not only changes the “power” of the jake brake, but also alters the “downshift schedule” of the transmission. With the jake brake set on 3, the computer more or less intends to STOP the truck, the moment your foot is lifted from the throttle, and will downshift aggressively. Instead of 1, 2, and 3... I refer to the settings as “empty, loaded and SHORT RAMP!”, lol I can’t really call the cascadia a “bad truck”, and if I was buying a truck to put a driver in... it is definitely one I would consider. But for myself... I don’t care for it very much. For me... if I were getting a new truck... I would take a serious look at the KW T680, or the Pete 589 (if I’m not mistaken on the model number?)... but with the manual transmission, etc. If I were running a fleet?... it’s been a long time since I’ve observed any drivers that I think know how to operate a manual transmission... so I would definitely be buying trucks with automated transmissions.

[@arguswil]

Petes are a pain to back up especially when you have to open the door. Other than that old school is a win for me.

[@joecreswell8557]

Ordered a 2021 Cascadia with 13 speed manual 505 HP/1850 tq. None of the radar/predictive cruise/lane departure junk. Filled the dash with as many gauges as they would allow. Trying to combine the old and new I guess. Hoping to ave around 9 mpg pulling hopper and van. Have 1.45 mil on a 2009 Cascadia with 455 HP 10 spd fleet spec I bought used over 9 years ago, still doing OK. Paid for years ago but to run 120000 miles a year requires $1800/mo ave to keep it dependable and rolling. Haven't missed a delivery in years with the truck. Have an excellent dealer that keeps me rolling with 7 day a week service, including 6 AM to 6 pm on Saturday and Sunday. 7 mpg is livable.

[@Agravier]

I trained on a old Peterbilt... nowdriving a 2020 Cas...Sorry the Cas puts the old Peterbilt to shame way better drive control & comfort and low noise.

[@robertcrawford4555]

I’ve driven both a 72 ,84,96,98,2004,2006,2016 peterbilts. I have only driven 1 cascadia and I would choose the cascadia.The Pete’s look awesome but the cascadia is way more comfortable once you get use to it.

[@LG-wp6ge]

The automatics trucks suck because over time the electronic transmission tends to shift all late,grind,stall and fail leaving you in the street after a year or two depending how far and how heavy you work the truck and thers no warning when it will fail for most trucks but some do have a warning like the VNL volvo but still there just junk overall. these trucks should be for local only.

[@Deleteguest]

I'm a lease operator driving a 2019 Kenworth T680 day cab. I've been driving it since March. I got it with around 91k on it, now it has 111k. You're absolutely right about these AMTs. I can already hear the transmission grinding the gears a couple times per day. I almost have enough money to get into a decent pre 2000s long hood. This lease program has LOADED me with money. It's honestly one of the best lease programs in the country, I'd say. I have the opportunity to leave it once a month when I sign the contract again. I love Kenworth but my truck is such a nutless POS. It's already showing huge red flags for failure, so I'm making my money quick and turning it back in to be someone else's problem

[@LG-wp6ge]

@@Deleteguest yeah you should turn the truck in asap because the maintenance and repairs for these amts are expensive and a hassle even if it's brand new out of the manufacturer and don't last long after repairs unless driven locally only. Take care and good luck on your trucking journey.

[@Corleone_Napoleone]

@@Deleteguest anything would be better. By “anything” I mean Detroit 60 Series, Cat 15 or N 14. I drive a 12.7 , simple reason, it is just so damn easy to work on and honestly, good fuel mileage and …… so Dan easy to rebuild then there you go, go another 1.3 mil

[@obiewancoyote]

I was shocked to see an all glass instrument panel on the Cascadia. I was given a brand new day cab before I left my last gig with a lot of the features they were talking about on this episode. My truck allowed you to temporarily disable the lane departure buzzer. But like all Freightliners you'll be chasing your own tail around with a socket wrench trying to keep the thing bolted together. The DD15 can put out a fair amount of grunt when the ECU is opened up. My current company has me in a 2012 retired Swift truck and up until 945k or so she pulled nice and strong. I'm reasonably sure it was inframed before being put into service hauling mail and beer.

[@RESISTAGE]

Dave is the kinda guy that still using his old film camera. 😂

[@kellymcdermott2546]

I am in New Zealand drive a Fuso Shogun computer shift(truck only) on local tipper, with 270 - 300 gear shifts/day, I won't go back to a manual. But, there are limitations in the software you have to drive around when in tipheads. On road the computer has it mostly right. Freightliner and Fuso are owned by Mercedes and probably have different versions of the same software.

[@jordanjacobs2440]

Peterbilts a truck for a man to drive!!! Love my manual peterbilt!

[@69castellano]

I'm a new driver (3.5yrs) I would rather drive a truck like yours than a plastic truck with an automatic. I'm almost 52 and I just love the old school trucks. I was driving an 05 western star with a cat acert and 18 spd, now I have a brand new freightshaker coranado glider with a 60 series and a 13speed, and, although it's nice, I wish I had the star car back! You can't beat that cat low end torque! I drove for a local company for almost a year and a half before I signed on with an owner-op to work the oil fields in PA, OH, and WV. In my 1st job I drove it all from International prostar day cabs, t680's, new versions of the 379's, and mack pinicles. I preferred the macks that they had just for the gearing to pull hills with the trucks being governed to 60mph for day cabs, and 65mph for hyway use. So it was nice to get into an un-governed truck. I did have an accident in the western star, not because it was un-governed, just a teen driver made a bad decision, and I could have been more attentive. so now my coronado is governed because the boss is pressured by his insurance company in order to save money. but it's governed to 75 mph which is fast enough for me, but it does cause some downshift problems. Especially when you're on the governor and you need to downshift quickly! You can't rev the motor up to catch even the low side of top gear because the motor won't rev over what it can do at that speed. It's still a learning curve, but the solution is to stab the brakes in 13, and drop 5mph before you can downshift to 12. I could go on about governed trucks but I'd be preaching to the choir. I know the insurance would be through the roof with me as a new driver and if I bought my own old truck, but I don't care! give me old school anyday!

[@mikeread3251]

I will take the peterbilt any day of the week. Old school cool

[@EllieODaire]

As you get used to driving the Cascadia and learning when you need to step in and force a shift (and how to manipulate the throttle, jake, & service brake to get it to shift more predictably), the automatic becomes a lot less of a negative, and the DT12 is one of the best automatics you can get. O/O spec Cascadias allow full manual control using the paddle as well which gives folks used to manual shifters the kind of fine control they're used to when they need it. (I find I prefer that for steep downgrades over the Auto's Descent Control mode.) Absolutely agreed on the giant sensor pack in the windshield, it's an absolute pain. I've had entire semi trucks coming down a descending on-ramp at just the right speed be completely hidden behind that camera box until moments before the merge. As for the trailer brake? I think the dash versus steering column placement is more of a Daimler vs PACCAR thing than a new vs old thing. Daimler trucks have been built for a while under the principle that the trailer brake is not for use on the highway, while only the newest automatic Pete's have moved the lever off of the steering column. I think the manuals still come with the trailer brake in the same position as on your old school Pete, at least they did up to the last one I drove which was a 2019 579. And yeah, while an eco spec Detroit can't hold a candle to a CAT in terms of power, the DD15 & DD16 can fly up hills if they're specced for it and can put the 13L Detroit, Volvo, & PACCAR motors to shame. Cascadias are incredibly versatile, you just have to spec it properly.

[@nickprick1960]

Old school is the best school! Hahh, Cascadia simply doesn’t suit you!!! Keep up the good work. Cheers…

[@truckerhershey7042]

Courious....did it have hood mirrors? I use the hood mirrors to align on the road.

[@billloffler8637]

I turned all my gauges where 12:00 is normal operating temperature or pressure. Old NASCAR trick.

[@chadwilliams2973]

Old school every day!! The Cat is a KILLER on new trucks

[@heaveymelt]

Who would of thought a shifter would become absolete

[@granthowze3023]

I drive a 2021 Cascadia and for the most part I like it. It's not the 58 Kenworth with a 475 Cat and a 6 and 4 that I started with, but times change and I just put it inanual mode when it's not shifting into the gear I want it in. I've grown to like the Detroit Assurance, but the lane drift warning gets annoying in construction zones though.

[@navado75]

I bet $100 if he drove the cascadia for a year he'd change his mind.

[@Bendigo1]

I bet he wouldn't.

[@Corleone_Napoleone]

Somehow, I doubt it. Come on man, look at the guy, he is a TRUCKER , not a driver.

[@navado75]

@@Corleone_Napoleone He's a business man 1st. Better fuel economy, less maintenance equals more $$$.

[@godblessamerica99]

As a new driver with only 10 months on the road, I agree with your assessment 100%. I drive a 2020 W990 with auto trans and while it is very comfy, I prefer rowing that stick in an old Petey.

[@STLPLAYB0Y]

The old truck look nice but I'll take the comfort and the fuel economy of the New Cascadia any day

[@christianrobertson9093]

Idk about comfort. Those cascadia’s ride like dog shit

[@sd.1110]

OLD SCHOOL all the way Dave!!!! I've driven both, Automatic's were made for steering wheel holders, not truck drivers!! Even after 2 years driving automatic, I still found myself lifting my left leg for the clutch an hand over for the shifter!! Nothing better than a 70's or 80's Pete with a 3408 or 3406 Cat, 13, 15, or 18 speed, with Jake an retarder!!! Best LowBed truck I ever drove!! I've also driven the old K series Cummins, 900 horses plowing the ground, That was a truck you had to know how to drive!!! Peal rubber right off the tires of you wanted to show off!! LoL Drove log truck with a 5 an a 4 sticks with a 2 speed overdrive, with 2 speed rear ends... Most new drivers never even heard of this stuff much less know what to do with it!!! LoL...

[@dchawk81]

Profits are my goal so I don't have a set preference that could destroy my business by sticking with it come hell or high water.

[@mywifesaidno2576]

My cascadia is still a money maker. Just turned 750k miles dd13 10 speed automatic. I would rather have a old school truck for the simplicity, no sensors , emissions or extra bs that isn't needed plus they hold their value.

[@Graveltrucking]

Your Pete is a man's truck, it takes a driver to drive it. You need a good Jake brake with rotten automatics. I don't know how you can turn with a 280 wheel base lol.

[@justinryan3508]

I definitely agree with you on the comparisons of the trucks, I've driven both old school and new school truck's and there's just no comparison for the ride, sound, and looks of a old school big hood truck.

[@benjaminroland671]

I thought we already settled this, new trucks suck/ old trucks rule.

[@danielkupka4088]

I use spot mirrors rather than the hood. Just use a different point of reference. It’s definitely different and would take some getting used to for anyone. Disposing of a predisposed idea will help anyone to become more open to driving any different model of rig. If it gets the job done safely it’s good enough for me

[@CumminsDriver100]

Old school is cool. And there's no comparison between that and those modern plastic toasters they call trucks nowadays...