Head to head
Caterpillar 301.7 CR vs Hitachi ZX220W-5B
The Hitachi ZX220W-5B is the bigger machine by 19,485kg and has 106kW more power.
Last reviewed 13 September 2026
Key differences
- Operating weight: the Hitachi ZX220W-5B is the bigger machine by 19,485kg.
- Engine power: the Hitachi ZX220W-5B has 106kW more power.
Specifications side by side
| Caterpillar 301.7 CR | Hitachi ZX220W-5B | |
|---|---|---|
| Operating weight | 1,915 kg (4,222 lb) | 21,400 - 24,000kg |
| Engine power | 15.7 kW (21 hp) | 122kW |
| Dig depth | 2,540 mm (100 in) (long stick) | - |
Sources: Caterpillar 301.7 CR, Hitachi ZX220W-5B. 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 ZX220W-5B if...
- you want one that is the bigger machine by 19,485kg
- you want one that has 106kW more power
A heavier wheeled excavator for contractors who need crawler-excavator-like dig performance with road mobility, such as sewer renewal and larger utility schemes. The two-piece boom gives more flexible reach over obstacles than a monoblock design.
Listed by
- McGovern Plant Hire - Hounslow, Cranford
Common questions
What is the difference between the Caterpillar 301.7 CR and the Hitachi ZX220W-5B?
The Hitachi ZX220W-5B is the bigger machine by 19,485kg and has 106kW more power. The Caterpillar 301.7 CR is a a sub-2 tonne conventional-tail-swing mini excavator; the Hitachi ZX220W-5B is a 24 tonne wheeled excavator with two-piece boom.
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