Volvo EC160 vs CAT 317: A Comprehensive Comparison of Two Compact Excavators

[MikePhua]

When it comes to compact excavators, two names that often come up are Volvo and CAT. Both manufacturers are known for producing high-quality, reliable equipment, and the Volvo EC160 and CAT 317 are no exceptions. In this article, we will explore the key features, advantages, and considerations of both models to help potential buyers make an informed decision.
Overview of the Volvo EC160 and CAT 317
Before diving into the specifics, let's first understand the basic specifications and positioning of these two models in the market.

• Volvo EC160: The Volvo EC160 is a mid-sized hydraulic excavator designed for a variety of applications, including construction, landscaping, and light demolition. Known for its efficient fuel consumption and versatility, the EC160 is often considered a reliable machine for contractors seeking a well-rounded excavator for tight spaces and smaller-scale tasks.
  
• CAT 317: The CAT 317 is a compact track excavator from Caterpillar, engineered for use in tough working conditions, particularly on rough or soft ground. It combines strength, stability, and digging power with advanced hydraulic systems. Like the EC160, the CAT 317 is versatile, but it's built for greater digging depth and reach, making it suitable for medium to heavy-duty operations.
  

Key Features Comparison
The Volvo EC160 and CAT 317, though similar in size, differ in several important ways. Below is a side-by-side comparison of their key features:
Engine and Power

• Volvo EC160:
  • Engine: Volvo D5E
    
  • Net Power: 122 hp (91 kW)
    
  • Fuel Tank Capacity: 210 L
    
  • Known for its fuel-efficient engine, the EC160 ensures that operators can maximize their productivity while minimizing fuel costs.
    
• CAT 317:
  • Engine: CAT C4.4 ACERT
    
  • Net Power: 129 hp (96 kW)
    
  • Fuel Tank Capacity: 200 L
    
  • The CAT 317 is slightly more powerful, delivering more horsepower for tougher digging and lifting tasks. The fuel capacity is a bit smaller than the Volvo EC160, but the power-to-fuel ratio remains highly efficient.
    

Hydraulic System

• Volvo EC160:
  • Hydraulic Flow: 212 L/min
    
  • Operating Pressure: 350 bar
    
  • Known for its smooth and responsive hydraulic system, the EC160 ensures precise control when operating attachments, digging, or lifting materials.
    
• CAT 317:
  • Hydraulic Flow: 200 L/min
    
  • Operating Pressure: 350 bar
    
  • While the CAT 317’s hydraulic flow is slightly lower, its hydraulic system is still highly efficient, providing solid digging power and excellent attachment compatibility.
    

Dimensions and Reach

• Volvo EC160:
  • Operating Weight: 16,000 kg (35,274 lbs)
    
  • Digging Reach: 8.5 meters (27.9 ft)
    
  • Maximum Digging Depth: 5.5 meters (18.04 ft)
    
  • The EC160 offers a competitive reach and depth for a machine in this class, which makes it highly versatile for different job sites, particularly in urban environments or areas with limited space.
    
• CAT 317:
  • Operating Weight: 18,000 kg (39,683 lbs)
    
  • Digging Reach: 9 meters (29.5 ft)
    
  • Maximum Digging Depth: 6 meters (19.7 ft)
    
  • The CAT 317 offers superior reach and depth, making it better suited for applications that require greater digging and lifting capability. It is designed for more heavy-duty tasks, with a higher overall operating weight.
    

Stability and Comfort

• Volvo EC160:
  • The EC160 offers a spacious and comfortable operator’s cabin with excellent visibility. The machine is designed to provide a smooth ride, even in uneven terrain, thanks to its advanced undercarriage design. Its stability is particularly noticeable when working on slopes or uneven surfaces.
    
• CAT 317:
  • The CAT 317 is also equipped with a comfortable operator station, with a focus on reducing operator fatigue. It features an ergonomic joystick control system, a spacious cabin, and a premium air suspension seat, all designed to keep operators comfortable and focused on the task at hand. Its undercarriage system provides excellent stability on soft ground.
    

Serviceability

• Volvo EC160:
  • Volvo machines are known for their easy serviceability, and the EC160 is no different. Regular maintenance tasks like checking fluid levels and inspecting components are easy to access, which can reduce downtime and enhance productivity on the job site.
    
• CAT 317:
  • Caterpillar is famous for its user-friendly service features, and the CAT 317 boasts excellent accessibility for maintenance. The engine and hydraulic components are easy to reach, and regular maintenance tasks can be performed efficiently, ensuring the machine runs at optimal performance for longer periods.
    

Pros and Cons: Volvo EC160 vs CAT 317
Volvo EC160 Pros:

• Fuel Efficiency: The EC160 is known for its fuel-efficient engine, which can significantly lower operating costs over time.
  
• Compact Size: Its compact size makes it highly maneuverable in tight spaces, making it ideal for urban construction projects or areas with limited access.
  
• Smooth Hydraulics: The hydraulic system in the EC160 provides smooth and precise control, which is especially beneficial for delicate tasks.
  

Volvo EC160 Cons:

• Lower Reach and Depth: Compared to the CAT 317, the EC160 has a shorter reach and digging depth, which may limit its use in certain heavy-duty tasks.
  
• Lower Weight: While the EC160’s lighter weight allows for greater maneuverability, it may sacrifice some stability on more uneven or rough terrain.
  

CAT 317 Pros:

• Greater Reach and Depth: The CAT 317 outperforms the EC160 in terms of reach and digging depth, making it ideal for heavier applications such as grading and material handling.
  
• Strong Hydraulic Power: The CAT 317's powerful hydraulic system provides excellent digging force, which is beneficial for tougher tasks like trenching and lifting heavy loads.
  
• Increased Weight: The CAT 317’s heavier weight translates into better stability, especially when working on soft or loose ground.
  

CAT 317 Cons:

• Higher Fuel Consumption: While the 317 is more powerful, its larger engine consumes more fuel, which could increase operational costs in the long run.
  
• Larger Size: The CAT 317 is larger and heavier than the EC160, which might limit its maneuverability in tight spaces.
  

Which One Should You Choose?
When deciding between the Volvo EC160 and the CAT 317, it ultimately comes down to your specific needs and priorities. Here are some key considerations:

• For tight spaces and lighter-duty work: The Volvo EC160 is an excellent choice due to its compact size, maneuverability, and fuel efficiency. It's ideal for projects where precision is important and working in confined areas is a priority.
  
• For heavy-duty tasks with greater reach: The CAT 317 is a better option for projects that require more power, reach, and digging depth. It's particularly useful for grading, lifting heavy materials, or working in rougher conditions.
  

Conclusion
Both the Volvo EC160 and CAT 317 offer solid performance and reliability. However, they cater to different types of projects. The Volvo EC160 excels in fuel efficiency and maneuverability, making it ideal for smaller jobs with space constraints. The CAT 317, on the other hand, is built for more heavy-duty tasks, with greater reach and digging capacity, making it the right choice for larger, more demanding projects.
Choosing between the two will depend on the specifics of your work environment, the tasks at hand, and your priorities in terms of performance, fuel consumption, and maneuverability.