Head to head
Wacker Neuson ET16 vs Wacker Neuson ET42
The Wacker Neuson ET42 is the bigger machine by 2,503kg and has 19kW more power.
Last reviewed 13 September 2026
Key differences
- Operating weight: the Wacker Neuson ET42 is the bigger machine by 2,503kg.
- Engine power: the Wacker Neuson ET42 has 19kW more power.
- Width: the Wacker Neuson ET42 is 76cm (2.5ft) wider.
- Length: the Wacker Neuson ET42 is 1.95m (6.5ft) longer.
- Dig depth: the Wacker Neuson ET42 digs 1.13m (3.5ft) deeper.
- Height: the Wacker Neuson ET42 is 32cm (1ft) taller.
Specifications side by side
| Wacker Neuson ET16 | Wacker Neuson ET42 | |
|---|---|---|
| Breakout force | 15.3 kN | 43.8 kN |
| Length | 3,644 mm | 5,594 mm |
| Operating weight | 1,529 to 1,842 kg | 4,032 to 5,206 kg |
| Dig depth | 2,413 mm | 3,544 mm |
| Width | 990 mm | 1,750 mm |
| Height | 2,285 mm | 2,608 mm |
| Engine power | 13.8 kW | 32.5 kW |
Sources: Wacker Neuson ET16, Wacker Neuson ET42. Figures vary by model year and options, so check with the supplier before you commit.
Buy or hire the ET16 if...
The 1.5 tonne class is the busiest size in UK hire fleets. At 1,529kg it goes on a braked plant trailer behind a large 4x4 or pickup, and digs to 2,413 mm for footings, drainage runs and fence posts.
Full ET16 specifications →Buy or hire the ET42 if...
- you want one that is the bigger machine by 2,503kg
- you want one that has 19kW more power
- you want one that is 76cm (2.5ft) wider
- you want one that is 1.95m (6.5ft) longer
- you want one that digs 1.13m (3.5ft) deeper
- you want one that is 32cm (1ft) taller
A midi excavator for groundworks, utilities and landscaping contractors. At 4.0 tonnes it arrives on a lorry rather than behind a car. It digs to 3,544 mm.
Full ET42 specifications →Common questions
What is the difference between the Wacker Neuson ET16 and the Wacker Neuson ET42?
The Wacker Neuson ET42 is the bigger machine by 2,503kg and has 19kW more power. The Wacker Neuson ET16 is a 1.5 tonne class mini excavator; the Wacker Neuson ET42 is a midi excavator, 3 to 6 tonnes.
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