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Two Giants in the Mass Excavation Class
When comparing the Caterpillar 390 and the Hitachi ZX870, you're looking at two of the most capable production-class excavators in the global market. Both machines are engineered for high-volume earthmoving, quarry operations, and large-scale infrastructure work. With operating weights exceeding 85 metric tons and bucket capacities pushing past 5 cubic meters, these excavators are built to move serious material.
Caterpillar and Hitachi have long histories in the heavy equipment industry. Caterpillar, founded in 1925, dominates the North American market and has a global footprint in mining and construction. Hitachi Construction Machinery, established in 1970, is known for its precision hydraulic systems and reliability in extreme conditions. Both companies have sold thousands of units worldwide, and their flagship excavators reflect decades of refinement.
Terminology Notes
The Cat 390 is part of Caterpillar’s Next Gen lineup, replacing the older 390F. It features a C18 engine producing over 543 horsepower, with an operating weight around 90 metric tons. Key highlights include:
Hitachi ZX870 Overview
The ZX870 is Hitachi’s answer to high-production excavation. Powered by an Isuzu 6WG1 engine delivering around 512 horsepower, the machine weighs approximately 87 metric tons. Notable features include:
Performance Comparison
While both machines excel in mass excavation, their design philosophies differ:
Maintenance and Serviceability
Caterpillar offers remote diagnostics and centralized grease points, making the 390 easier to manage in fleet operations. Hitachi’s ZX870, on the other hand, is known for its straightforward mechanical layout, which appeals to field mechanics and owner-operators.
A fleet manager in Texas reported that his Cat 390 required fewer unscheduled service calls due to its onboard alerts and fluid monitoring. Meanwhile, a quarry in New Zealand preferred the ZX870 for its minimal electronic dependencies and ease of hose replacement.
Operator Experience and Cab Design
Both machines offer spacious cabs with air suspension seats, climate control, and ergonomic controls. Caterpillar’s cab includes touchscreen displays and customizable profiles. Hitachi’s cab is simpler but praised for visibility and low noise levels.
An operator in Nevada described the Cat 390 cab as “a command center,” while a veteran in British Columbia said the ZX870 felt “like an extension of his arm” due to its hydraulic responsiveness.
Anecdote from the Field
In 2023, a contractor in Pennsylvania was tasked with removing 100,000 cubic meters of shale for a highway expansion. He rented both machines for side-by-side comparison. The Cat 390 loaded trucks faster, but the ZX870 consumed less fuel and required fewer filter changes. Ultimately, he purchased the ZX870 for long-term use, citing its simplicity and lower operating costs.
Conclusion
Choosing between the Caterpillar 390 and Hitachi ZX870 depends on your priorities. If you value integrated technology, operator customization, and fleet diagnostics, the Cat 390 is a powerhouse. If you prefer hydraulic finesse, mechanical reliability, and fuel efficiency, the ZX870 is a proven performer. Both machines are built to move mountains—your decision hinges on how you want to climb them.
When comparing the Caterpillar 390 and the Hitachi ZX870, you're looking at two of the most capable production-class excavators in the global market. Both machines are engineered for high-volume earthmoving, quarry operations, and large-scale infrastructure work. With operating weights exceeding 85 metric tons and bucket capacities pushing past 5 cubic meters, these excavators are built to move serious material.
Caterpillar and Hitachi have long histories in the heavy equipment industry. Caterpillar, founded in 1925, dominates the North American market and has a global footprint in mining and construction. Hitachi Construction Machinery, established in 1970, is known for its precision hydraulic systems and reliability in extreme conditions. Both companies have sold thousands of units worldwide, and their flagship excavators reflect decades of refinement.
Terminology Notes
- Production-Class Excavator: A large excavator designed for continuous, high-output digging and loading.
- Boom and Stick Configuration: The arm geometry that determines reach, breakout force, and cycle time.
- Hydraulic Flow Rate: The volume of hydraulic fluid delivered per minute, affecting speed and responsiveness.
- Undercarriage Track Gauge: The width between tracks, influencing stability and transportability.
The Cat 390 is part of Caterpillar’s Next Gen lineup, replacing the older 390F. It features a C18 engine producing over 543 horsepower, with an operating weight around 90 metric tons. Key highlights include:
- Advanced electro-hydraulic system with customizable flow settings
- Payload and grade control integration
- Reinforced boom and stick for high-impact applications
- Extended service intervals with onboard diagnostics
Hitachi ZX870 Overview
The ZX870 is Hitachi’s answer to high-production excavation. Powered by an Isuzu 6WG1 engine delivering around 512 horsepower, the machine weighs approximately 87 metric tons. Notable features include:
- Hitachi’s HIOS IV hydraulic system for precise control
- Robust cooling package for hot climates and long shifts
- Simplified layout for easier field service
- Optional mining boom for extreme reach and durability
Performance Comparison
While both machines excel in mass excavation, their design philosophies differ:
- The Cat 390 emphasizes operator customization, with adjustable joystick response and integrated tech for payload tracking.
- The ZX870 focuses on hydraulic precision and mechanical simplicity, favoring reliability over digital complexity.
Maintenance and Serviceability
Caterpillar offers remote diagnostics and centralized grease points, making the 390 easier to manage in fleet operations. Hitachi’s ZX870, on the other hand, is known for its straightforward mechanical layout, which appeals to field mechanics and owner-operators.
A fleet manager in Texas reported that his Cat 390 required fewer unscheduled service calls due to its onboard alerts and fluid monitoring. Meanwhile, a quarry in New Zealand preferred the ZX870 for its minimal electronic dependencies and ease of hose replacement.
Operator Experience and Cab Design
Both machines offer spacious cabs with air suspension seats, climate control, and ergonomic controls. Caterpillar’s cab includes touchscreen displays and customizable profiles. Hitachi’s cab is simpler but praised for visibility and low noise levels.
An operator in Nevada described the Cat 390 cab as “a command center,” while a veteran in British Columbia said the ZX870 felt “like an extension of his arm” due to its hydraulic responsiveness.
Anecdote from the Field
In 2023, a contractor in Pennsylvania was tasked with removing 100,000 cubic meters of shale for a highway expansion. He rented both machines for side-by-side comparison. The Cat 390 loaded trucks faster, but the ZX870 consumed less fuel and required fewer filter changes. Ultimately, he purchased the ZX870 for long-term use, citing its simplicity and lower operating costs.
Conclusion
Choosing between the Caterpillar 390 and Hitachi ZX870 depends on your priorities. If you value integrated technology, operator customization, and fleet diagnostics, the Cat 390 is a powerhouse. If you prefer hydraulic finesse, mechanical reliability, and fuel efficiency, the ZX870 is a proven performer. Both machines are built to move mountains—your decision hinges on how you want to climb them.
