Head to head
Bobcat E17z vs JCB 86C-2
The JCB 86C-2 is the bigger machine by 6,888kg and has 38kW more power.
Last reviewed 13 September 2026
Key differences
- Operating weight: the JCB 86C-2 is the bigger machine by 6,888kg.
- Engine power: the JCB 86C-2 has 38kW more power.
- Dig depth: the JCB 86C-2 digs 2.29m (7.5ft) deeper.
Specifications side by side
| Bobcat E17z | JCB 86C-2 | |
|---|---|---|
| Operating weight | 1712kg | 8600 kg |
| Dig depth | 2230mm | 4.52 m |
| Engine power | 10.1kW | 48 kW |
| Breakout force | 11.92kN | - |
| Dump height | - | 5.39 m |
Sources: Bobcat E17z, JCB 86C-2. 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
- HG Plant Sales - Maldon, Langford
Buy or hire the 86C-2 if...
- you want one that is the bigger machine by 6,888kg
- you want one that has 38kW more power
- you want one that digs 2.29m (7.5ft) deeper
Used by groundworks and civils contractors for deeper trenching, pipe laying and loading on housing and utility sites. Hire fleets stock it as the step between mini diggers and full-size excavators.
Full 86C-2 specifications →Common questions
What is the difference between the Bobcat E17z and the JCB 86C-2?
The JCB 86C-2 is the bigger machine by 6,888kg and has 38kW more power. The Bobcat E17z is a 1.5 tonne class mini excavator, zero tail swing; the JCB 86C-2 is a 8.6 tonne conventional-tailswing midi excavator.
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