Profile For Super T.

Hey guys,

I am 4 years into trucking now, 1.5years of that long haul and I'm about to jump into becoming an owner operator. I've looked at a few trucks and would like some experienced advice on which to proceed with.

Purpose of truck is hauling Van/Reefer loaded around 70,000 lbs gross to the mid west.

The trucks are; 1. 2016 Western Star 5700XE Engine: DD15, 505HP Transmission: DT12 Auto Axle Ratio: 3.23 Mileage: 450,000 Km or 280,000 Miles Price: $95,000 CAD or $71,000 USD

Pro's: Below market price, and low mileage. Con's: Has been in a small accident (cosmetics damage only, has been sufficiently repaired), excessive rust from operating in western Canada.

The rust is excessive and I'm wondering if it needs to be sand blasted off and painted or is it something I can handle with a drill wire brush, rust remover/inhibitor and some spray paint.

2. 2015 Volvo VNL780 Engine: D-13, 455HP Transmission: Eaton13 Axle Ratio: 3.42 Mileage: 725,000 Km or 450,000 Miles Price: $80,000 CAD or $60,000 USD

Pro's: Looks well maintained, very little rust showing on the entire truck, Better interior and larger cab Con's: Priced at market value (5700XE is around 10 to 15k CAD below market value)

I'm leaning towards the Western Star because of the value. The biggest cause of friction for me is the rust (I've never driven a truck with this amount and I don't know what problems it can cause in the future). I've attached a few pictures of the rust, what do you guys think?

Thank you

Rust Pics https://imgur.com/a/ZLgERHY

P.S. I've posted this same thread on multiple forums, here's a link if you're interested https://www.thetruckersreport.com/truckingindustryforum/threads/looking-for-input-on-first-truck-purchase.1379144/