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Comparison · Excavator

Caterpillar 320 vs Volvo EC220E

The Volvo EC220E is about 4% heavier than the Caterpillar 320 (23,500 vs 22,500 kg), which usually means more stability and lifting capacity but higher transport weight.

Engine output is effectively the same on both machines.

Beyond the numbers, compare local dealer support, parts availability and resale value for Caterpillar and Volvo Construction Equipment 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
Volvo EC220 crawler excavator (D-series pictured, predecessor of the EC220E)
Volvo Construction Equipment Volvo EC220E
Operating weight 22,500 kg (49,600 lb)23,500 kg (51,800 lb)
Engine power 121 kW (162 hp)122 kW (164 hp)
Net power ≈121 kW (162 hp)≈122 kW (164 hp)
Max. digging depth ≈6.7 m (22 ft)≈6.7 m (22 ft)
Engine Cat C7.1Volvo D6J
Max. reach at ground level ≈9.9 m (32 ft 6 in)—
Bucket capacity 0.9–1.5 m³ (1.2–2.0 yd³)0.8–1.6 m³ (1.0–2.1 yd³)
Fuel tank ≈345 L (91 US gal)—
Emissions EPA Tier 4 Final / EU Stage VEU Stage V / EPA Tier 4 Final
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
  • + Quiet, spacious cab with excellent visibility
  • + ECO mode and automatic engine shut-down cut fuel use
  • + Volvo Active Control option for semi-automatic grading
  • + Good serviceability with ground-level access
Watch-outs
  • − Higher purchase price than most rivals
  • − Technology packages add significant cost
  • − Electronic complexity can mean dealer-only diagnostics
  • − Dealer coverage weaker than Cat and Komatsu in some regions
  • − Resale values slightly lower than Cat in North America
Full 320 reviewFull EC220E 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.