Head to head
Mecalac 9MDX vs Thwaites 3 Tonne Front Tip
The Mecalac 9MDX has 529kW more power and carries 6 tonnes more.
Last reviewed 13 September 2026
Key differences
- Engine power: the Mecalac 9MDX has 529kW more power.
- Payload: the Mecalac 9MDX carries 6 tonnes more.
Specifications side by side
| Mecalac 9MDX | Thwaites 3 Tonne Front Tip | |
|---|---|---|
| Payload | 9000 kg | 3000 kg |
| Engine power | 55,4 kW (74 hp) | 24.8kW (33.2 bhp) @ 2800rpm |
| Operating weight | 5315 kg (11718 lb) to 5715 kg (12600 lb) | - |
| Travel speed | 25 km/h | - |
| Heaped capacity | - | 1680 litres |
| Engine | - | Yanmar 3TNV88 |
Sources: Mecalac 9MDX, Thwaites 3 Tonne Front Tip. Figures vary by model year and options, so check with the supplier before you commit.
Buy or hire the 9MDX if...
- you want one that has 529kW more power
- you want one that carries 6 tonnes more
A 9 tonne dumper with a fully enclosed ROPS/FOPS cab for bulk earthmoving, civils and road works on UK sites. Available with front tip or swivel skip.
Full 9MDX specifications →Buy or hire the 3 Tonne Front Tip if...
A mid-size front tip dumper for groundworks, drainage and general muck shifting on UK sites where a 3 tonne payload is enough. Sits between the 1 tonne hi-tip and the 6 tonne dumpers in the Thwaites range.
Full 3 Tonne Front Tip specifications →Common questions
What is the difference between the Mecalac 9MDX and the Thwaites 3 Tonne Front Tip?
The Mecalac 9MDX has 529kW more power and carries 6 tonnes more. The Mecalac 9MDX is a 9 tonne cabbed site dumper; the Thwaites 3 Tonne Front Tip is a 3 tonne front tip site dumper.
Which carries more, the Mecalac 9MDX or the Thwaites 3 Tonne Front Tip?
The Mecalac 9MDX, by 6 tonnes.
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