Head to head
Caterpillar 301.7 CR vs John Deere 6170R
The John Deere 6170R has 109kW more power.
Last reviewed 13 September 2026
Key differences
- Engine power: the John Deere 6170R has 109kW more power.
Specifications side by side
| Caterpillar 301.7 CR | John Deere 6170R | |
|---|---|---|
| Engine power | 15.7 kW (21 hp) | 125kW (170hp) |
| Operating weight | 1,915 kg (4,222 lb) | - |
| Dig depth | 2,540 mm (100 in) (long stick) | - |
Sources: Caterpillar 301.7 CR, John Deere 6170R. 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 6170R if...
- you want one that has 109kW more power
A mid-size utility tractor used on plant-hire fleets for towing plant trailers, running PTO-driven attachments and general groundwork traction where a dedicated construction tractor unit isn't justified. Suits contractors who need towing capacity rather than pure horsepower.
Listed by
- McGovern Plant Hire - Hounslow, Cranford
Common questions
What is the difference between the Caterpillar 301.7 CR and the John Deere 6170R?
The John Deere 6170R has 109kW more power. The Caterpillar 301.7 CR is a a sub-2 tonne conventional-tail-swing mini excavator; the John Deere 6170R is a 170hp agricultural tractor.
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