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Comparison · Excavator

Caterpillar 320 vs Liebherr R 938

The Liebherr R 938 is about 78% heavier than the Caterpillar 320 (40,000 vs 22,500 kg), which usually means more stability and lifting capacity but higher transport weight.

The Liebherr R 938 has about 65% more engine power (200 kW (268 hp) vs 121 kW (162 hp)).

Beyond the numbers, compare local dealer support, parts availability and resale value for Caterpillar and Liebherr in your region: over the life of a machine they often matter more than small specification differences.

Caterpillar 320 hydraulic excavator digging on a site
Caterpillar Caterpillar 320
Liebherr R 938
Liebherr Liebherr R 938
Operating weight 22,500 kg (49,600 lb)40,000 kg (88,200 lb)
Engine power 121 kW (162 hp)200 kW (268 hp)
Net power ≈121 kW (162 hp)—
Max. digging depth ≈6.7 m (22 ft)—
Engine Cat C7.1—
Max. reach at ground level ≈9.9 m (32 ft 6 in)—
Bucket capacity 0.9–1.5 m³ (1.2–2.0 yd³)—
Fuel tank ≈345 L (91 US gal)—
Emissions EPA Tier 4 Final / EU Stage V—
Engine power —≈200 kW (272 hp)
Strengths
  • + Factory-integrated Cat Grade with 2D and Assist features
  • + Up to 25% lower maintenance cost than the previous F-series, according to Cat
  • + Excellent resale value and dealer support worldwide
  • + Robust design
  • + Good lifting capacity
Watch-outs
  • − Higher purchase price than most rivals
  • − Technology packages add significant cost
  • − Electronic complexity can mean dealer-only diagnostics
  • − Dealer support varies outside Europe
Full 320 reviewFull R 938 review

Specifications are typical figures for standard configurations and may be measured differently by each manufacturer (for example net vs gross power). Always confirm with the manufacturer or dealer. Build another comparison.