Head to head
Bobcat E17z vs Hitachi ZX170W-6
The Hitachi ZX170W-6 digs 3.6m (12ft) deeper.
Last reviewed 13 September 2026
Key differences
- Dig depth: the Hitachi ZX170W-6 digs 3.6m (12ft) deeper.
Specifications side by side
| Bobcat E17z | Hitachi ZX170W-6 | |
|---|---|---|
| Dig depth | 2230mm | up to 5,830mm (5,720mm with 2-piece boom, 2.50m arm) |
| Operating weight | 1712kg | - |
| Engine power | 10.1kW | - |
| Breakout force | 11.92kN | - |
Sources: Bobcat E17z, Hitachi ZX170W-6. Figures vary by model year and options, so check with the supplier before you commit.
Buy or hire the E17z if...
The 1.5 tonne class is the busiest size in UK hire fleets. At 1,712kg it goes on a braked plant trailer behind a large 4x4 or pickup, and digs to 2230mm for footings, drainage runs and fence posts. Zero tail swing means the back of the machine stays inside the tracks when it slews, so it can work tight against a wall or in one lane of a road.
Listed by
- Compact Plant Sales - Farnham
Buy or hire the ZX170W-6 if...
- you want one that digs 3.6m (12ft) deeper
A larger wheeled digger for contractors handling bigger drainage, sewer and groundworks packages who still need to drive between sites on the public road. The extra size over the 145W gives more reach and breakout force.
Listed by
- McGovern Plant Hire - Hounslow, Cranford
Common questions
What is the difference between the Bobcat E17z and the Hitachi ZX170W-6?
The Hitachi ZX170W-6 digs 3.6m (12ft) deeper. The Bobcat E17z is a 1.5 tonne class mini excavator, zero tail swing; the Hitachi ZX170W-6 is a 17 tonne wheeled excavator.
GetBrent is an independent directory and is not a dealer for, nor affiliated with, either manufacturer. Model and brand names are the trademarks of their owners.