Peterbilt 387
Truck tractor • Production 1999–2010
About the Peterbilt 387
The Peterbilt 387 is a Class 8 aerodynamic highway tractor produced from 1999 to 2010, built as Peterbilt's fuel-efficient fleet counterpart to the classic 379. With a sloped hood and aerodynamic cab, the 387 targeted long-haul fleets focused on fuel economy rather than the traditional styling of the 379. It was powered by the Caterpillar C13, Cummins ISX, and Detroit Series 60 engines, and was succeeded by the Peterbilt 587. The 387 remains common in the used long-haul market.
Overview
The Peterbilt 387 is a Class 8 aerodynamic highway tractor produced from 1999 to 2010, built as Peterbilt's fuel-efficient fleet counterpart to the classic 379. With a sloped hood and aerodynamic cab, the 387 targeted long-haul fleets focused on fuel economy rather than the traditional styling of the 379. It was powered by the Caterpillar C13, Cummins ISX, and Detroit Series 60 engines, and was succeeded by the Peterbilt 587. The 387 remains common in the used long-haul market.
Specifications
- Manufacturer
- Peterbilt
- Class
- Class 8
- Vehicle type
- Truck tractor
- Cab type
- Sleeper
- Production years
- 1999–2010
- Applications
- Long-haul, fleet
- Typical engines
- Caterpillar C13, Cummins ISX, Detroit Series 60
- Typical transmissions
- Eaton Fuller manual, Eaton UltraShift
- GVWR range
- Class 8 (33,001+ lbs)
Design and engineering
The 387 traded the 379's classic long-nose look for a modern aerodynamic profile and lighter cab to reduce fuel consumption for high-mileage fleet use.
Generations and major changes
Market position and popularity
A common aerodynamic fleet tractor of the 2000s; frequently seen in the used market and inspection records.
Who buys this truck
Fleets and owner-operators wanting an affordable, fuel-conscious used Peterbilt highway sleeper.
Common problems and reliability notes
As a 1999-2010 tractor spanning the 2007 emissions transition, common concerns include EGR-related issues on later engines and high-mileage wear. Year-specific recall and complaint history should be checked below.
Pros and cons
✓ Pros
- • Better aerodynamics and fuel economy than the 379
- • Peterbilt build quality and parts support
- • Inexpensive, widely available used
- • Comfortable highway sleeper
⚠ Cons
- • Lacks the classic styling and resale of the 379
- • 2007+ emissions-engine concerns
- • Discontinued — used-only purchase