Head to head
Bobcat E17z vs Yanmar ViO38-6
The Yanmar ViO38-6 is the bigger machine by 1,863kg and has 9kW more power.
Last reviewed 6 October 2026
Key differences
- Operating weight: the Yanmar ViO38-6 is the bigger machine by 1,863kg.
- Engine power: the Yanmar ViO38-6 has 9kW more power.
- Dig depth: the Yanmar ViO38-6 digs 1.06m (3.5ft) deeper.
Specifications side by side
| Bobcat E17z | Yanmar ViO38-6 | |
|---|---|---|
| Operating weight | 1712kg | 3575 kg (canopy) / 3695 kg (cabin) |
| Dig depth | 2230mm | 3290 mm / 3530mm* |
| Engine power | 10.1kW | 18.9 kW / 25.3 HP at 2200 rpm |
| Breakout force | 11.92kN | - |
Sources: Bobcat E17z, Yanmar ViO38-6. 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
- HG Plant Sales - Maldon, Langford
Buy or hire the ViO38-6 if...
- you want one that is the bigger machine by 1,863kg
- you want one that has 9kW more power
- you want one that digs 1.06m (3.5ft) deeper
A mid-size mini excavator for drainage, foundations and utility work where a 3 to 4 tonne machine is wanted with a short rear swing. Contractors and hire fleets use it on housing plots and roadside trenching.
Full ViO38-6 specifications →Common questions
What is the difference between the Bobcat E17z and the Yanmar ViO38-6?
The Yanmar ViO38-6 is the bigger machine by 1,863kg and has 9kW more power. The Bobcat E17z is a 1.5 tonne class mini excavator, zero tail swing; the Yanmar ViO38-6 is a 3.8 tonne zero tailswing mini excavator.
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