Head to head
Caterpillar D3 vs Volvo FMX 540
The Volvo FMX 540 has 325kW more power.
Last reviewed 13 September 2026
Key differences
- Engine power: the Volvo FMX 540 has 325kW more power.
Specifications side by side
| Caterpillar D3 | Volvo FMX 540 | |
|---|---|---|
| Engine power | 77.6kW (104hp) | 540bhp (D13, Euro 6) |
| Operating weight | 9362kg (20,640lb) | - |
| Blade capacity | 2.19m3, or 2.34m3 with LGP tracks | - |
| Engine | Cat C3.6 | - |
| Gross weight | - | 32,000kg (32 tonne) |
| Payload | - | 20,000kg |
| Axles | - | 8x4 |
Sources: Caterpillar D3, Volvo FMX 540. 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 FMX 540 if...
- you want one that has 325kW more power
A heavy construction truck for muckaway and aggregate haulage contractors who need an 8-wheel tipper or tipper-grab body on a chassis built for site conditions rather than motorway haulage. The high-output D13 engine suits loaded running on soft or hilly access roads.
Listed by
- McGovern Plant Hire - Hounslow, Cranford
Common questions
What is the difference between the Caterpillar D3 and the Volvo FMX 540?
The Volvo FMX 540 has 325kW more power. The Caterpillar D3 is a small crawler dozer; the Volvo FMX 540 is a 540bhp 8x4 heavy tipper/grab truck.
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