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Hitachi ZX85USB-6 vs John Deere 6170R

The John Deere 6170R has 83kW more power.

Last reviewed 13 September 2026

Hitachi ZX85USB-6
Hitachi ZX85USB-6 - image: Barnes Plant Sales Ltd
6170R
John Deere 6170R

Key differences

Specifications side by side

Hitachi ZX85USB-6John Deere 6170R
Engine power42.4kW125kW (170hp)
Operating weight8,430 - 9,060kg-
Dig depth3,910 - 4,510mm-

Sources: Hitachi ZX85USB-6, John Deere 6170R. Figures vary by model year and options, so check with the supplier before you commit.

Buy or hire the ZX85USB-6 if...

A popular hire-fleet size for groundworkers and utility contractors who need more reach and dig depth than a mini excavator but still want a zero-swing tail for working close to walls and other plant. Common on drainage and footing jobs on housing sites.

Listed by

Full ZX85USB-6 specifications →

Buy or hire the 6170R if...

  • you want one that has 83kW 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 Hitachi ZX85USB-6 and the John Deere 6170R?

The John Deere 6170R has 83kW more power. The Hitachi ZX85USB-6 is a 8.4-9.1 tonne zero tail swing crawler excavator; the John Deere 6170R is a 170hp agricultural tractor.

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