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Comparison · Wheel loader

Caterpillar 938 vs Liebherr L 526

The Caterpillar 938 is about 16% heavier than the Liebherr L 526 (16,229 vs 13,970 kg), which usually means more stability and lifting capacity but higher transport weight.

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 938
Caterpillar Caterpillar 938
Liebherr L 526 wheel loader
Liebherr Liebherr L 526
Operating weight 16,229 kg (35,800 lb)13,970 kg (30,800 lb)
Engine power 140 kW (188 hp)—
Net power ≈140 kW (188 hp)—
Bucket capacity 2.5–5.0 m³ (3.3–6.5 yd³)2.00–5.50 m³ (2.6–7.2 yd³)
Static tipping load, full turn ≈9,860–9,950 kg (21,737–21,934 lb)—
Drive HydrostaticHydrostatic
Emissions US EPA Tier 4 Final / EU Stage VEU Stage V / US Tier 4 Final
Engine output (ISO 9249) —114 kW (155 hp)
Engine output (ISO 14396) —116 kW (158 hp)
Tipping load —5,030–8,730 kg
Kinematics —Z-bar
Strengths
  • + Largest of Cat’s small loaders — strong for aggregates
  • + Hydrostatic drive efficiency
  • + Next Gen cab and controls
  • + Cat support and resale
  • + Hydrostatic drive: efficient, smooth, low brake and tyre wear
  • + Z-bar kinematics for strong breakout
  • + Liebherr build quality and comfort
Watch-outs
  • − Premium price
  • − Older 938M figures differ — check the generation
  • − Premium price
  • − Dealer network thinner outside Europe
Full 938 reviewFull L 526 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.