Head to head
Caterpillar 301.7 CR vs JCB 16C-1
The Caterpillar 301.7 CR has 4kW more power and is the bigger machine by 166kg. The JCB 16C-1 digs 3cm deeper.
Last reviewed 6 October 2026
Key differences
- Engine power: the Caterpillar 301.7 CR has 4kW more power.
- Operating weight: the Caterpillar 301.7 CR is the bigger machine by 166kg.
- Dig depth: the JCB 16C-1 digs 3cm deeper.
Specifications side by side
| Caterpillar 301.7 CR | JCB 16C-1 | |
|---|---|---|
| Operating weight | 1,915 kg (4,222 lb) | 1749 kg |
| Dig depth | 2,540 mm (100 in) (long stick) | 2.57 m |
| Engine power | 15.7 kW (21 hp) | 11.7 kW |
| Dump height | - | 2.63 m |
Sources: Caterpillar 301.7 CR, JCB 16C-1. Figures vary by model year and options, so check with the supplier before you commit.
Buy or hire the 301.7 CR if...
- you want one that has 4kW more power
- you want one that is the bigger machine by 166kg
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 16C-1 if...
- you want one that digs 3cm deeper
A small tow-behind digger for domestic groundworks, drainage and service trenches where a van or pickup is the transport. It suits hire fleets and builders working in gardens and tight side access.
Full 16C-1 specifications →Common questions
What is the difference between the Caterpillar 301.7 CR and the JCB 16C-1?
The Caterpillar 301.7 CR has 4kW more power and is the bigger machine by 166kg. The JCB 16C-1 digs 3cm deeper. The Caterpillar 301.7 CR is a a sub-2 tonne conventional-tail-swing mini excavator; the JCB 16C-1 is a 1.5 tonne micro mini excavator.
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