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Comparison · Bulldozer

Caterpillar D3 vs Caterpillar D6

The Caterpillar D6 is about 147% heavier than the Caterpillar D3 (22,250 vs 9,000 kg), which usually means more stability and lifting capacity but higher transport weight.

The Caterpillar D6 has about 108% more engine power (160 kW (215 hp) vs 77 kW (103 hp)).

Caterpillar D3 bulldozer
Caterpillar Caterpillar D3
Caterpillar D6T crawler dozer on a river project
Caterpillar Caterpillar D6
Operating weight 9,000 kg (19,800 lb)22,250 kg (49,100 lb)
Engine power 77 kW (103 hp)160 kW (215 hp)
Net power ≈77 kW (104 hp)≈160 kW (215 hp)
Blade 6-way PAT—
Blade capacity —up to ≈5.6 m³ (7.3 yd³), SU blade
Engine —Cat C9.3B
Drive —Powershift or electric drive (XE)
Emissions —EPA Tier 4 Final / EU Stage V
Strengths
  • + Smooth hydrostatic drive
  • + Factory grade control options
  • + Electric-drive D6 XE claims significantly lower fuel use
  • + Cat Grade and Assist features as factory options
  • + Huge dealer, parts and resale support
Watch-outs
  • − Small blade for bulk dozing
  • − Expensive, especially in XE form with technology
  • − Electric-drive complexity requires dealer expertise
Full D3 reviewFull D6 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.