Head to head
Bobcat E17z vs Kubota U36-4
The Kubota U36-4 is the bigger machine by 2,043kg and has 8kW more power.
Last reviewed 13 September 2026
Key differences
- Operating weight: the Kubota U36-4 is the bigger machine by 2,043kg.
- Engine power: the Kubota U36-4 has 8kW more power.
- Dig depth: the Kubota U36-4 digs 1.18m (4ft) deeper.
Specifications side by side
| Bobcat E17z | Kubota U36-4 | |
|---|---|---|
| Operating weight | 1712kg | 3755 kg |
| Dig depth | 2230mm | 3410 mm |
| Engine power | 10.1kW | 17.8 kw |
| Breakout force | 11.92kN | - |
| Width | - | 1700 mm |
Sources: Bobcat E17z, Kubota U36-4. 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 U36-4 if...
- you want one that is the bigger machine by 2,043kg
- you want one that has 8kW more power
- you want one that digs 1.18m (4ft) deeper
A zero-tail swing digger for builders, utility firms and hire fleets working beside walls, fences and live traffic. Common for trenching, foundations and drainage on urban sites.
Full U36-4 specifications →Common questions
What is the difference between the Bobcat E17z and the Kubota U36-4?
The Kubota U36-4 is the bigger machine by 2,043kg and has 8kW more power. The Bobcat E17z is a 1.5 tonne class mini excavator, zero tail swing; the Kubota U36-4 is a 3.5 tonne zero-tail swing compact excavator.
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