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Comparison · Wheel loader

Caterpillar 966 vs Caterpillar 972

The Caterpillar 972 is about 5% heavier than the Caterpillar 966 (25,000 vs 23,750 kg), which usually means more stability and lifting capacity but higher transport weight.

The Caterpillar 972 has about 7% more engine power (236 kW (316 hp) vs 221 kW (296 hp)).

Caterpillar 966C wheel loader (an earlier generation of the 966)
Caterpillar Caterpillar 966
Caterpillar 972
Caterpillar Caterpillar 972
Operating weight 23,750 kg (52,400 lb)25,000 kg (55,100 lb)
Engine power 221 kW (296 hp)236 kW (316 hp)
Net power ≈221 kW (296 hp)≈236 kW (316 hp)
Bucket capacity ≈3.8–5.0 m³ (5.0–6.5 yd³)≈4.2–5.7 m³ (5.5–7.5 yd³)
Engine Cat C9.3B—
Strengths
  • + XE version with CVT for fuel savings
  • + Payload weighing options
  • + Strong resale
  • + High productivity
  • + XE fuel savings
Watch-outs
  • − Premium price
  • − Premium price
Full 966 reviewFull 972 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.