Weird as it might seem, they're going towards automatic trans - cuttin mileage down to 4mpg.

Largest engine is the 600+ hp Mach Bulldog, ye see em used as rock haulers. Hardtail Mach's got reputation for beatin up drivers though. Sportiest rig is Peterbuilt, easily the lightest weight of all with aluminum cab & doghouse also tightest steering radius - handles like sports car. 90mph bull-haulers drive Pete's for fast trips outa Amarillo to Denver stockyards.

Right now truckin is very popular 2nd career among husb & wife teams after kickin the kids outa the house. No entry level top-end age limit. Imagine gettin paid $100k combined to travel the states with wife. Most truckers aint the gorillas ye think they are. Many are college educated refugees from 9-5 desk jobs they hated most of their lives. Reconnoitre 3 week truckin school is all ye need, job placement is guaranteed.