CAT 320 vs Komatsu PC200 — Which 20-Ton Excavator Wins in SA?
The CAT 320 and Komatsu PC200 are the two most-searched 20-ton excavators in South Africa. They compete for the same civils, quarry and plant-hire buyer. On paper they're within a rounding error — in practice, dealer support, parts availability and resale set them apart.
Caterpillar 320
The CAT 320 is the benchmark 20-ton excavator in South Africa — favoured by civil contractors, quarries and plant hire fleets for its balance of dig depth, fuel economy and resale value. IronYard lists live 320B, 320C, 320D, 320D2, 320GC and 320 Next Gen stock from verified SA dealers, with hours, service history, FRC status and finance available.
Komatsu PC200
The Komatsu PC200 is the CAT 320's toughest rival in the 20-ton class — arguably better on fuel, with strong SA dealer support through Komatsu South Africa. IronYard lists PC200-6, PC200-7, PC200-8, PC200-10 and PC200-11 stock with hours, service records and finance available.
Specs side-by-side
| Spec | Caterpillar 320 | Komatsu PC200 |
|---|---|---|
| Operating weight | 20 400 – 22 900 kg | 19 800 – 21 400 kg |
| Engine | CAT C4.4 / C7.1 ACERT | Komatsu SAA6D107E-1 / -3 |
| Net power | 121 kW (162 hp) | 110 kW (148 hp) |
| Max dig depth | 6.72 m (standard stick) | 6.62 m |
| Max reach | 9.86 m | 9.87 m |
| Bucket capacity | 0.8 – 1.4 m³ | 0.8 – 1.2 m³ |
| Fuel tank | 410 L | 400 L |
| Travel speed | 5.5 km/h | 5.5 km/h |
| Typical fuel burn | 12 – 16 L/hr | 11 – 15 L/hr |
The verdict
Buy the CAT 320 if you value the Barloworld dealer footprint, strongest resale in SA, and abundant used parts. Buy the Komatsu PC200 if you can get a lower entry price and have a decent Komatsu SA service relationship — the machine itself is arguably a touch more fuel-efficient per cubic metre moved, but the ecosystem is thinner outside Gauteng.
You're running a fleet, need Barloworld support countrywide, or plan to trade in within 5 years.
You're upcountry, price-sensitive on entry, and have a trusted Komatsu tech nearby.
Live stock — both machines
Caterpillar 320
No live stock right now — get notified.
Komatsu PC200
No live stock right now — get notified.