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Comparison · Backhoe loader

Caterpillar 420 vs Komatsu WB97S-8

The Caterpillar 420 is about 4% heavier than the Komatsu WB97S-8 (8,850 vs 8,500 kg), which usually means more stability and lifting capacity but higher transport weight.

The Komatsu WB97S-8 has about 6% more engine power (74 kW (99 hp) vs 70 kW (94 hp)).

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

Caterpillar 420F IT backhoe loader
Caterpillar Caterpillar 420
Komatsu WB97S-8 backhoe loader
Komatsu Komatsu WB97S-8
Operating weight 8,850 kg (19,500 lb)8,500 kg (18,700 lb)
Engine power 70 kW (94 hp)74 kW (99 hp)
Net power ≈70 kW (94 hp)≈74 kW (99 hp)
Max. digging depth ≈4.4 m (14 ft 5 in) std; ≈5.3 m (17 ft 5 in) extended—
Engine Cat C3.6—
Loader bucket ≈1.0–1.2 m³ (1.3–1.6 yd³)—
Boom —Side-shift
Strengths
  • + Smooth hydraulic and pilot control options
  • + Integrated tool-carrier (IT) loader option for forks
  • + Strong Cat dealer support
  • + Side-shift for work beside walls
  • + Equal wheels
Watch-outs
  • − More expensive than CASE and Deere equivalents
  • − Electronics-heavy compared with older models
  • − Less common outside Europe
Full 420 reviewFull WB97S-8 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.