Head to head
Caterpillar 301.7 CR vs Hitachi ZX350LC-6
The Hitachi ZX350LC-6 is the bigger machine by 32,285kg and has 194kW more power.
Last reviewed 13 September 2026
Key differences
- Operating weight: the Hitachi ZX350LC-6 is the bigger machine by 32,285kg.
- Engine power: the Hitachi ZX350LC-6 has 194kW more power.
Specifications side by side
| Caterpillar 301.7 CR | Hitachi ZX350LC-6 | |
|---|---|---|
| Operating weight | 1,915 kg (4,222 lb) | 34,200 - 36,300kg |
| Dig depth | 2,540 mm (100 in) (long stick) | 6,500 - 7,380mm |
| Engine power | 15.7 kW (21 hp) | 210kW (ISO14396) |
Sources: Caterpillar 301.7 CR, Hitachi ZX350LC-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 ZX350LC-6 if...
- you want one that is the bigger machine by 32,285kg
- you want one that has 194kW more power
Sized for bulk earthmoving, quarry and large groundworks contractors who need high dig depth and bucket capacity rather than tight site manoeuvrability. It sits above the typical hire-fleet mid-range and suits larger civils and demolition packages.
Listed by
- McGovern Plant Hire - Hounslow, Cranford
Common questions
What is the difference between the Caterpillar 301.7 CR and the Hitachi ZX350LC-6?
The Hitachi ZX350LC-6 is the bigger machine by 32,285kg and has 194kW more power. The Caterpillar 301.7 CR is a a sub-2 tonne conventional-tail-swing mini excavator; the Hitachi ZX350LC-6 is a 34-36 tonne large crawler excavator.
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