Head to head
Caterpillar 301.7 CR vs Volvo Construction Equipment ECR40
The Volvo Construction Equipment ECR40 is the bigger machine by 2,070kg and has 3kW more power.
Last reviewed 6 October 2026
Key differences
- Operating weight: the Volvo Construction Equipment ECR40 is the bigger machine by 2,070kg.
- Engine power: the Volvo Construction Equipment ECR40 has 3kW more power.
Specifications side by side
| Caterpillar 301.7 CR | Volvo Construction Equipment ECR40 | |
|---|---|---|
| Operating weight | 1,915 kg (4,222 lb) | 3,985 kg |
| Engine power | 15.7 kW (21 hp) | 18.5 kW |
| Dig depth | 2,540 mm (100 in) (long stick) | - |
| Bucket capacity | - | 0.052 - 0.148 m3 |
Sources: Caterpillar 301.7 CR, Volvo Construction Equipment ECR40. 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 ECR40 if...
- you want one that is the bigger machine by 2,070kg
- you want one that has 3kW more power
A short swing radius compact excavator for trenching, landscaping and building work in confined spaces. Contractors and hire fleets use it where a 4 tonne digger is needed close to walls and traffic.
Full ECR40 specifications →Common questions
What is the difference between the Caterpillar 301.7 CR and the Volvo Construction Equipment ECR40?
The Volvo Construction Equipment ECR40 is the bigger machine by 2,070kg and has 3kW more power. The Caterpillar 301.7 CR is a a sub-2 tonne conventional-tail-swing mini excavator; the Volvo Construction Equipment ECR40 is a 4 tonne short swing mini excavator.
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