Head to head
Caterpillar 301.7 CR vs MTS Dino 12
The MTS Dino 12 has 184kW more power.
Last reviewed 13 September 2026
Key differences
- Engine power: the MTS Dino 12 has 184kW more power.
Specifications side by side
| Caterpillar 301.7 CR | MTS Dino 12 | |
|---|---|---|
| Engine power | 15.7 kW (21 hp) | 200 kW (twin fan system) |
| Operating weight | 1,915 kg (4,222 lb) | - |
| Dig depth | 2,540 mm (100 in) (long stick) | - |
| Tank capacity | - | 12 m3 |
| Suction hose diameter | - | 250mm |
| Chassis | - | 8x4, 32 tonne |
Sources: Caterpillar 301.7 CR, MTS Dino 12. 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 Dino 12 if...
- you want one that has 184kW more power
The Dino 12 suits contractors handling bigger vacuum excavation jobs, such as trial holes on major utility works, where its 8x4 chassis and twin-fan system give more continuous suction power than a smaller van-mounted unit. It is aimed at hire fleets serving highways and utility contractors rather than small domestic drainage jobs.
Listed by
- McGovern Plant Hire - Hounslow, Cranford
Common questions
What is the difference between the Caterpillar 301.7 CR and the MTS Dino 12?
The MTS Dino 12 has 184kW more power. The Caterpillar 301.7 CR is a a sub-2 tonne conventional-tail-swing mini excavator; the MTS Dino 12 is a a larger truck-mounted suction excavator from MTS, built on an 8x4 32-tonne chassis for heavier vacuum excavation work..
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