Head to head
JCB 35Z-1 vs JCB 86C-2
The JCB 86C-2 has 30kW more power and is the bigger machine by 5,044kg.
Last reviewed 13 September 2026
Key differences
- Engine power: the JCB 86C-2 has 30kW more power.
- Operating weight: the JCB 86C-2 is the bigger machine by 5,044kg.
- Dig depth: the JCB 86C-2 digs 1.04m (3.5ft) deeper.
Specifications side by side
| JCB 35Z-1 | JCB 86C-2 | |
|---|---|---|
| Operating weight | 3556 kg | 8600 kg |
| Dig depth | 3.48 m | 4.52 m |
| Dump height | 3.53 m | 5.39 m |
| Engine power | 18.4 kW | 48 kW |
Sources: JCB 35Z-1, JCB 86C-2. Figures vary by model year and options, so check with the supplier before you commit.
Buy or hire the 35Z-1 if...
A common step up from the 2 to 3 tonne diggers for house foundations, utility trenching and landscaping on tight urban sites. Zero tailswing lets it slew close to walls and traffic.
Full 35Z-1 specifications →Buy or hire the 86C-2 if...
- you want one that has 30kW more power
- you want one that is the bigger machine by 5,044kg
- you want one that digs 1.04m (3.5ft) deeper
Used by groundworks and civils contractors for deeper trenching, pipe laying and loading on housing and utility sites. Hire fleets stock it as the step between mini diggers and full-size excavators.
Full 86C-2 specifications →Common questions
What is the difference between the JCB 35Z-1 and the JCB 86C-2?
The JCB 86C-2 has 30kW more power and is the bigger machine by 5,044kg. The JCB 35Z-1 is a 3.5 tonne zero-tailswing mini excavator; the JCB 86C-2 is a 8.6 tonne conventional-tailswing midi excavator.
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