The Forgotten Engine That Was More Powerful Than the Cummins Big Cam

The Cummins Big Cam became the most trusted engine in American trucking, powering millions of miles and earning a reputation so strong that drivers asked for it by name. But while fleets standardized around the Big Cam, another American-built engine quietly delivered more power, more torque, and better performance under the toughest conditions. This is the forgotten heavyweight that outclassed an icon.

This video breaks down why the Big Cam became a legend, how it dominated the long-haul industry, and why the Mack E9 V8 remained in the shadows despite outperforming it in nearly every meaningful metric. We’ll look at their engineering differences, torque curves, real-world hauling performance, and the market forces that shaped how each engine was used.

Most importantly, we’ll explore the Australian operations where the Mack E9 proved what it was truly capable of. From mining to timber hauling, it built a reputation that never made it back to the States. This is the story of the American engine that should have been a legend — and the reasons it never got the credit it deserved.
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