Head to head
Caterpillar D3 vs Merlo P27.6 PLUS
The Merlo P27.6 PLUS has 476kW more power. The Caterpillar D3 is the bigger machine by 4,512kg.
Last reviewed 13 September 2026
Key differences
- Engine power: the Merlo P27.6 PLUS has 476kW more power.
- Operating weight: the Caterpillar D3 is the bigger machine by 4,512kg.
Specifications side by side
| Caterpillar D3 | Merlo P27.6 PLUS | |
|---|---|---|
| Operating weight | 9362kg (20,640lb) | 4850 kg |
| Engine power | 77.6kW (104hp) | 55,4 kW at 2,200 rpm |
| Blade capacity | 2.19m3, or 2.34m3 with LGP tracks | - |
| Engine | Cat C3.6 | - |
| Load capacity | - | 2700 kg |
| Lifting height | - | 5.9 m |
Sources: Caterpillar D3, Merlo P27.6 PLUS. Figures vary by model year and options, so check with the supplier before you commit.
Buy or hire the D3 if...
- you want one that is the bigger machine by 4,512kg
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 P27.6 PLUS if...
- you want one that has 476kW more power
A compact telehandler for building sites, farms, estates and landscaping where space is tight but 2.7 tonne lifts to about 6 metres are needed.
Full P27.6 PLUS specifications →Common questions
What is the difference between the Caterpillar D3 and the Merlo P27.6 PLUS?
The Merlo P27.6 PLUS has 476kW more power. The Caterpillar D3 is the bigger machine by 4,512kg. The Caterpillar D3 is a small crawler dozer; the Merlo P27.6 PLUS is a compact 2.7 tonne telehandler.
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