Head to head
Caterpillar D3 vs John Deere 6170R
The John Deere 6170R has 47kW more power.
Last reviewed 13 September 2026

Key differences
- Engine power: the John Deere 6170R has 47kW more power.
Specifications side by side
| Caterpillar D3 | John Deere 6170R | |
|---|---|---|
| Engine power | 77.6kW (104hp) | 125kW (170hp) |
| Operating weight | 9362kg (20,640lb) | - |
| Blade capacity | 2.19m3, or 2.34m3 with LGP tracks | - |
| Engine | Cat 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
- B & T Plant Hire - Gravesend
- B & T Plant Hire Ltd - Morden
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
- McGovern Plant Hire - Hounslow, Cranford
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.
GetBrent is an independent directory and is not a dealer for, nor affiliated with, either manufacturer. Model and brand names are the trademarks of their owners.
