Head to head
Caterpillar 301.7 CR vs Wacker Neuson ET42
The Wacker Neuson ET42 is the bigger machine by 2,117kg and has 17kW more power.
Last reviewed 13 September 2026
Key differences
- Operating weight: the Wacker Neuson ET42 is the bigger machine by 2,117kg.
- Engine power: the Wacker Neuson ET42 has 17kW more power.
- Dig depth: the Wacker Neuson ET42 digs 1.0m (3.5ft) deeper.
Specifications side by side
| Caterpillar 301.7 CR | Wacker Neuson ET42 | |
|---|---|---|
| Operating weight | 1,915 kg (4,222 lb) | 4,032 to 5,206 kg |
| Dig depth | 2,540 mm (100 in) (long stick) | 3,544 mm |
| Engine power | 15.7 kW (21 hp) | 32.5 kW |
| Breakout force | - | 43.8 kN |
| Length | - | 5,594 mm |
| Width | - | 1,750 mm |
| Height | - | 2,608 mm |
Sources: Caterpillar 301.7 CR, Wacker Neuson ET42. 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 ET42 if...
- you want one that is the bigger machine by 2,117kg
- you want one that has 17kW more power
- you want one that digs 1.0m (3.5ft) deeper
A midi excavator for groundworks, utilities and landscaping contractors. At 4.0 tonnes it arrives on a lorry rather than behind a car. It digs to 3,544 mm.
Listed by
- GEM Plant Sales Limited - Ashford, Sevington, Willesborough
Common questions
What is the difference between the Caterpillar 301.7 CR and the Wacker Neuson ET42?
The Wacker Neuson ET42 is the bigger machine by 2,117kg and has 17kW more power. The Caterpillar 301.7 CR is a a sub-2 tonne conventional-tail-swing mini excavator; the Wacker Neuson ET42 is a midi excavator, 3 to 6 tonnes.
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