Head to head
Caterpillar 301.7 CR vs Hitachi ZX170W-6
The Hitachi ZX170W-6 digs 3.29m (11ft) deeper.
Last reviewed 13 September 2026
Key differences
- Dig depth: the Hitachi ZX170W-6 digs 3.29m (11ft) deeper.
Specifications side by side
| Caterpillar 301.7 CR | Hitachi ZX170W-6 | |
|---|---|---|
| Dig depth | 2,540 mm (100 in) (long stick) | up to 5,830mm (5,720mm with 2-piece boom, 2.50m arm) |
| Operating weight | 1,915 kg (4,222 lb) | - |
| Engine power | 15.7 kW (21 hp) | - |
Sources: Caterpillar 301.7 CR, Hitachi ZX170W-6. Figures vary by model year and options, so check with the supplier before you commit.
Buy or hire the 301.7 CR if...
The Cat 301.7 CR is Caterpillar's roughly 2 tonne mini excavator, built around the Cat C1.1 engine and backed by Caterpillar's dealer network for parts and service. It is specified on UK sites for the same drainage, groundworks and utility jobs as the Kubota U27-4 and Takeuchi TB216, with buyers often citing Cat's residual values and dealer support over price. It is one of the smaller models in Caterpillar's wider mini excavator line-up, which extends up to around 10 tonnes.
Full 301.7 CR specifications →Buy or hire the ZX170W-6 if...
- you want one that digs 3.29m (11ft) deeper
A larger wheeled digger for contractors handling bigger drainage, sewer and groundworks packages who still need to drive between sites on the public road. The extra size over the 145W gives more reach and breakout force.
Listed by
- McGovern Plant Hire - Hounslow, Cranford
Common questions
What is the difference between the Caterpillar 301.7 CR and the Hitachi ZX170W-6?
The Hitachi ZX170W-6 digs 3.29m (11ft) deeper. The Caterpillar 301.7 CR is a a sub-2 tonne conventional-tail-swing mini excavator; the Hitachi ZX170W-6 is a 17 tonne wheeled excavator.
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