Skip to content
WorksiteMachines

Comparison · Wheel loader

Caterpillar 966 vs Liebherr L 566 XPower

The Liebherr L 566 XPower 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 966 has about 10% more engine power (221 kW (296 hp) vs 200 kW (268 hp)).

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 966C wheel loader (an earlier generation of the 966)
Caterpillar Caterpillar 966
Liebherr L 566 wheel loader
Liebherr Liebherr L 566 XPower
Operating weight 23,750 kg (52,400 lb)25,000 kg (55,100 lb)
Engine power 221 kW (296 hp)200 kW (268 hp)
Net power ≈221 kW (296 hp)—
Bucket capacity ≈3.8–5.0 m³ (5.0–6.5 yd³)≈4.0 m³ (5.2 yd³), standard
Engine Cat C9.3BLiebherr D936
Engine power —≈200 kW (272 hp)
Drive —XPower power-split (hydrostatic + mechanical)
Strengths
  • + XE version with CVT for fuel savings
  • + Payload weighing options
  • + Strong resale
  • + Outstanding fuel efficiency claimed by Liebherr
  • + Smooth, stepless drive
  • + Rear-mounted engine aids stability and serviceability
Watch-outs
  • − Premium price
  • − High purchase price
  • − Complex drivetrain requires skilled service
Full 966 reviewFull L 566 XPower 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.