CAT 966H vs Komatsu WA380 — Loader Comparison
The CAT 966H and Komatsu WA380 are the direct-comparison wheel loaders for the 5-yard class in South Africa. Both modern. Both proven. Different value propositions.
Caterpillar 966H
The CAT 966H is the H-series update of the definitive 20-ton class wheel loader — ACERT engine, upgraded cab and improved hydraulics over the G-series. IronYard lists clean 966H stock from South African quarries, aggregate yards and civil fleets, with hours, tyre life and finance available.
Komatsu WA380
The Komatsu WA380 is the direct rival to the CAT 966 and Volvo L120 in the 20-ton wheel loader class — with Komatsu's proven parallel-lift linkage and strong fuel economy on the WA380-8 platform. IronYard lists WA380-6, -7 and -8 stock with hours, tyre life and finance available.
Specs side-by-side
| Spec | Caterpillar 966H | Komatsu WA380 |
|---|---|---|
| Operating weight | 23 800 kg | 22 400 kg |
| Engine | CAT C11 ACERT | Komatsu SAA6D107E |
| Net power | 224 kW (300 hp) | 142 kW (191 hp) |
| Bucket capacity | 3.5 – 4.2 m³ | 3.1 – 4.0 m³ |
| Payload | 6 500 kg (standard bucket) | 6 000 kg (standard bucket) |
| Tyres | 26.5 R25 | 23.5 R25 |
| Fuel tank | 435 L | 310 L |
| Typical fuel burn | 20 – 26 L/hr | 17 – 23 L/hr |
The verdict
The CAT 966H wins on Barloworld support and resale. The Komatsu WA380 is often more affordable used, has a slightly larger bucket, and competes hard on fuel economy in its later variants. Both are excellent — the deciding factor is usually your local dealer relationship.
Barloworld-supported fleets, resale-focused operators, mixed-brand fleets standardising on CAT.
Price-focused buyers, quarry loaders, sites with Komatsu SA nearby.
Live stock — both machines
Caterpillar 966H
No live stock right now — get notified.
Komatsu WA380
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