Rigid Opinions

This month it’s a battle between F G Bond & Son’s 6x2 rear-steer rigids: Daf CF440 takes on a Scania R450. Our opinion is followed by the views of their drivers

Although the new Scania range is just starting to enter into service, the existing R-series is still a fine truck, particularly an example as well-specced as this.

It’s curious to think that this basic cab shell has been around for 20 years and that later versions such as this one here might well still be working for another 20 years. The combination of leather and wood trim is beautifully finished, the Scania feeling like a high quality machine.

The 450hp engine is well matched to the two-pedal Opticruise gearbox; after all, 26 tonnes on three axles is never going to challenge a 44-tonne driveline. The truck accelerates effortlessly, the gear changes are smooth and the engine note subdued. With this engine output you know the truck is loaded, but nothing really challenges it. It would be hard to make a case for any more power in a solo rigid and it’s so unstressed we would be surprised if the driveline gave any serious problems in 10 years or more.

Although the full air suspension is smooth, there is a bit of roll, albeit well controlled. We have always been big fans of Scania retarders, which, used properly, make descending hills when loaded a formality. As expected, the R450 is a beautiful truck to drive.

Daf considerably heavier