Head to head
Caterpillar 301.7 CR vs Hitachi ZX85USB-6
The Hitachi ZX85USB-6 is the bigger machine by 6,515kg and has 27kW more power.
Last reviewed 13 September 2026
Key differences
- Operating weight: the Hitachi ZX85USB-6 is the bigger machine by 6,515kg.
- Engine power: the Hitachi ZX85USB-6 has 27kW more power.
Specifications side by side
| Caterpillar 301.7 CR | Hitachi ZX85USB-6 | |
|---|---|---|
| Operating weight | 1,915 kg (4,222 lb) | 8,430 - 9,060kg |
| Dig depth | 2,540 mm (100 in) (long stick) | 3,910 - 4,510mm |
| Engine power | 15.7 kW (21 hp) | 42.4kW |
Sources: Caterpillar 301.7 CR, Hitachi ZX85USB-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 ZX85USB-6 if...
- you want one that is the bigger machine by 6,515kg
- you want one that has 27kW more power
A popular hire-fleet size for groundworkers and utility contractors who need more reach and dig depth than a mini excavator but still want a zero-swing tail for working close to walls and other plant. Common on drainage and footing jobs on housing sites.
Listed by
- McGovern Plant Hire - Hounslow, Cranford
Common questions
What is the difference between the Caterpillar 301.7 CR and the Hitachi ZX85USB-6?
The Hitachi ZX85USB-6 is the bigger machine by 6,515kg and has 27kW more power. The Caterpillar 301.7 CR is a a sub-2 tonne conventional-tail-swing mini excavator; the Hitachi ZX85USB-6 is a 8.4-9.1 tonne zero tail swing crawler excavator.
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