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Caterpillar D3 vs John Deere 6170R

The John Deere 6170R has 47kW more power.

Last reviewed 13 September 2026

D3
Caterpillar D3
John Deere 6170R
John Deere 6170R - image: McGovern Plant Hire

Key differences

Specifications side by side

Caterpillar D3John Deere 6170R
Engine power77.6kW (104hp)125kW (170hp)
Operating weight9362kg (20,640lb)-
Blade capacity2.19m3, or 2.34m3 with LGP tracks-
EngineCat C3.6-

Sources: Caterpillar D3, John Deere 6170R. Figures vary by model year and options, so check with the supplier before you commit.

Buy or hire the D3 if...

Caterpillar's smallest crawler dozer, used for fine grading, landscaping and confined-site work where a full-size dozer won't fit. Common in UK plant hire fleets alongside mini excavators.

Listed by

Full D3 specifications →

Buy or hire the 6170R if...

  • you want one that has 47kW 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

Full 6170R specifications →

Common questions

What is the difference between the Caterpillar D3 and the John Deere 6170R?

The John Deere 6170R has 47kW more power. The Caterpillar D3 is a small crawler dozer; the John Deere 6170R is a 170hp agricultural tractor.

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