Head to head
Bobcat E17z vs Wacker Neuson ET42
The Wacker Neuson ET42 has 22kW more power and is the bigger machine by 2,320kg.
Last reviewed 13 September 2026
Key differences
- Engine power: the Wacker Neuson ET42 has 22kW more power.
- Operating weight: the Wacker Neuson ET42 is the bigger machine by 2,320kg.
- Dig depth: the Wacker Neuson ET42 digs 1.31m (4.5ft) deeper.
Specifications side by side
| Bobcat E17z | Wacker Neuson ET42 | |
|---|---|---|
| Operating weight | 1712kg | 4,032 to 5,206 kg |
| Dig depth | 2230mm | 3,544 mm |
| Engine power | 10.1kW | 32.5 kW |
| Breakout force | 11.92kN | 43.8 kN |
| Length | - | 5,594 mm |
| Width | - | 1,750 mm |
| Height | - | 2,608 mm |
Sources: Bobcat E17z, Wacker Neuson ET42. 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 ET42 if...
- you want one that has 22kW more power
- you want one that is the bigger machine by 2,320kg
- you want one that digs 1.31m (4.5ft) deeper
A midi excavator for groundworks, utilities and landscaping contractors. At 4.0 tonnes it arrives on a lorry rather than behind a car. It digs to 3,544 mm.
Listed by
- GEM Plant Sales Limited - Ashford, Sevington, Willesborough
Common questions
What is the difference between the Bobcat E17z and the Wacker Neuson ET42?
The Wacker Neuson ET42 has 22kW more power and is the bigger machine by 2,320kg. The Bobcat E17z is a 1.5 tonne class mini excavator, zero tail swing; the Wacker Neuson ET42 is a midi excavator, 3 to 6 tonnes.
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