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Comparison · Wheel loader

Caterpillar 938 vs Komatsu WA470-8

The Komatsu WA470-8 is about 52% heavier than the Caterpillar 938 (24,670 vs 16,229 kg), which usually means more stability and lifting capacity but higher transport weight.

The Komatsu WA470-8 has about 45% more engine power (203 kW (272 hp) vs 140 kW (188 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 938
Caterpillar Caterpillar 938
Komatsu WA470-8
Komatsu Komatsu WA470-8
Operating weight 16,229 kg (35,800 lb)24,670 kg (54,400 lb)
Engine power 140 kW (188 hp)203 kW (272 hp)
Net power ≈140 kW (188 hp)—
Bucket capacity 2.5–5.0 m³ (3.3–6.5 yd³)3.8–4.65 m³ (5.0–6.1 yd³)
Static tipping load, full turn ≈9,860–9,950 kg (21,737–21,934 lb)17,280 kg (38,103 lb)
Drive Hydrostatic—
Emissions US EPA Tier 4 Final / EU Stage V—
Net power (ISO 9249) —203 kW (272 hp) at 2,000 rpm
Breakout force —168 kN (37,770 lbf)
Dump clearance at 45° —3.06 m (10 ft)
Engine model —Komatsu SAA6D125E-7, six cylinders, 11.04 L
Gross power (SAE J1995) —204 kW (273 hp)
Aftertreatment —KDPF + SCR
Transmission —Powershift with lock-up torque converter
Steering angle —35° each direction
Dump reach at 45° —1.37 m (4 ft 6 in)
Static tipping load, straight —20,090 kg (44,292 lb)
DEF tank —36 L (9.5 US gal)
Hydraulic system —173 L (45.7 US gal)
Strengths
  • + Largest of Cat’s small loaders — strong for aggregates
  • + Hydrostatic drive efficiency
  • + Next Gen cab and controls
  • + Cat support and resale
  • + Big 11-litre engine for production work
  • + High 3.06 m dump clearance
  • + Lock-up torque converter and SmartLoader Logic
  • + Komtrax standard
Watch-outs
  • − Premium price
  • − Older 938M figures differ — check the generation
  • − Breakout lower than some rivals (e.g., Volvo L150H 201 kN)
  • − KDPF + SCR maintenance
Full 938 reviewFull WA470-8 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.