Head to head
Bobcat E55z vs Kubota U17-3a
The Bobcat E55z has 25kW more power and is the bigger machine by 3,571kg.
Last reviewed 13 September 2026
Key differences
- Engine power: the Bobcat E55z has 25kW more power.
- Operating weight: the Bobcat E55z is the bigger machine by 3,571kg.
- Dig depth: the Bobcat E55z digs 97cm (3ft) deeper.
Specifications side by side
| Bobcat E55z | Kubota U17-3a | |
|---|---|---|
| Operating weight | 5271kg | 1,700kg |
| Dig depth | 3434mm | 2,460mm |
| Engine power | 36.4kW | 11.3kW |
| Breakout force | 30.99kN | - |
Sources: Bobcat E55z, Kubota U17-3a. Figures vary by model year and options, so check with the supplier before you commit.
Buy or hire the E55z if...
- you want one that has 25kW more power
- you want one that is the bigger machine by 3,571kg
- you want one that digs 97cm (3ft) deeper
A midi excavator for groundworks, utilities and landscaping contractors. At 5.3 tonnes it arrives on a lorry rather than behind a car. It digs to 3434mm. 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
Buy or hire the U17-3a if...
A step up from a micro excavator for landscaping and groundworks contractors who need more dig depth and breakout force while still fitting through a standard gate or gap. Common on garden and small drainage jobs.
Listed by
- McGovern Plant Hire - Hounslow, Cranford
- Compact Plant Sales - Farnham
- Standard Plant Hire - Keston
Common questions
What is the difference between the Bobcat E55z and the Kubota U17-3a?
The Bobcat E55z has 25kW more power and is the bigger machine by 3,571kg. The Bobcat E55z is a midi excavator, zero tail swing, 3 to 6 tonnes; the Kubota U17-3a is a 1.7 tonne mini excavator.
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