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Head to head

Merlo P27.6 PLUS vs Takeuchi TB216

The Merlo P27.6 PLUS has 543kW more power and is the bigger machine by 2,985kg.

Last reviewed 13 September 2026

Merlo P27.6 PLUS
Merlo P27.6 PLUS - image: Molson Group
Takeuchi TB216
Takeuchi TB216 - image: takeuchi-mfg.co.uk

Key differences

Specifications side by side

Merlo P27.6 PLUSTakeuchi TB216
Operating weight4850 kg1,865 / 1,770 kg (cab/canopy)
Engine power55,4 kW at 2,200 rpm11.5 kW at 2,400 rpm (Yanmar 3TNV70)
Load capacity2700 kg-
Lifting height5.9 m-
Dig depth-2,390 mm
Extendable undercarriage width-980 - 1,300 mm

Sources: Merlo P27.6 PLUS, Takeuchi TB216. Figures vary by model year and options, so check with the supplier before you commit.

Buy or hire the P27.6 PLUS if...

  • you want one that has 543kW more power
  • you want one that is the bigger machine by 2,985kg

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 →

Buy or hire the TB216 if...

The Takeuchi TB216 is a long-running fixture of the UK 1.5-2 tonne mini excavator hire class, used for groundworks, drainage and small demolition jobs. Its extendable undercarriage gives it the stability of a wider track base for digging while still narrowing for transport and access. It competes closely with the Kubota KX019-4 and similarly sized Bobcat and JCB machines for the same hire slots.

Full TB216 specifications →

Common questions

What is the difference between the Merlo P27.6 PLUS and the Takeuchi TB216?

The Merlo P27.6 PLUS has 543kW more power and is the bigger machine by 2,985kg. The Merlo P27.6 PLUS is a compact 2.7 tonne telehandler; the Takeuchi TB216 is a a 1.7-1.9 tonne conventional tail swing mini excavator.

GetBrent is an independent directory and is not a dealer for, nor affiliated with, either manufacturer. Model and brand names are the trademarks of their owners.