Cat wheel loader sizes

Cat wheel loaders cover everything from compact material handling to high-production quarry loading. This size guide arranges the Cat 906, 938, 950, 966, 980 and 988 from smallest to largest based on operating weight.

The range starts with the 5.73-ton Cat 906 and ends with the 49.5-ton Cat 988. Reviewing their weight, power and machine class helps buyers choose a suitable loader for landscaping, construction, truck loading, aggregate handling and quarry production.

Cat 988 Wheel loaders
2004-2014

The Cat 988 is a high-capacity wheel loader with a 6.9 cubic meter bucket, 415.3 kN breakout force, and the operating weight needed for quarry and aggregate production. Compared with the smaller Cat 966 and Cat 980, it delivers greater loading capacity and material-handling output, but requires more transport space, fuel, and working room.

Overview

The Cat 988 (988H) (2004–2014) is a 49.55-ton wheel loader aimed at quarry operators, aggregate producers, mining support fleets, and contractors that regularly move large volumes of material. Its 414 kilowatt Cat C18 ACERT engine, 6.9 cubic meter bucket, 11.4-ton lifting capacity, and 415.3 kN breakout force make it suitable for loading haul trucks, handling blasted rock, feeding crushers, and managing large stockpiles.

Expert rating: 5 stars

Pros High breakout force and large bucket capacity support fast loading cycles and heavy material handling.

Cons High fuel, tire, and transport costs make it excessive for routine construction loading.

Performance & Efficiency

The 414 kilowatt Cat C18 ACERT turbocharged engine produces up to 2,852 Nm of torque for pushing into dense stockpiles and maintaining loaded travel performance. Its 415.3 kN breakout force helps fill the 6.9 cubic meter bucket in compacted material, while the 492-liter-per-minute variable-displacement piston pump supports responsive lifting, tilting, and rack-back movements. The 11.4-ton lifting capacity and 30.07-ton tipping load provide a stable working platform for repetitive quarry and aggregate loading.

In Comparison

Cat 966: Easier to transport and more practical for general construction and medium-volume loading, but offers substantially less bucket capacity and breakout force.
Cat 980: A closer alternative for quarry and aggregate work, with lower operating weight and easier site logistics, but less overall loading capacity than the Cat 988.
Cat 988: Provides the strongest production package of the three, combining a 6.9 cubic meter bucket, 415.3 kN breakout force, and 414 kilowatt engine power for high-volume material handling.

Final Verdict

Rated 5 stars, the Cat 988 is a high-production wheel loader within the AED 440,000–670,000 range. Its large bucket, strong breakout force, high engine output, and substantial tipping load make it a practical choice for quarries, aggregate plants, mines, and major stockpile operations where production justifies the higher fuel, tire, and transport costs.

6.9 cu m Bucket capacity

414 kw Gross power

11,400 kg Lifting capacity

4 mm Max dump height

2 mm Max dump reach

49,550 kg Operating weight

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Makana rating

Owner rating

| 5

Market average

AED 670,000

Starting from

AED 440,000

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WHL-016

2012 Cat 988H wheel loader

Cat 980 Wheel loaders
2006-2014

The Cat 980 (2006–2014) comes in G and H variants. Operating weight ~29.4–30.5 t, bucket size ~4.6–6.1 m³, power ~250–274 kW (335–367 hp) from the Cat C15 ACERT engine. G is Tier 3 with proven durability; H adds improved hydraulics, better fuel economy, and cab comfort upgrades.

Engine: Cat C15 ACERT (~250–274 kW / 335–367 hp)
Operating Weight: ~29,400–30,500 kg
Bucket Capacity: ~4.6–6.1 m³
Breakout Force: ~250–265 kN
Tipping Load (Straight): ~22,000–23,500 kg
Travel Speed: ~39–40 km/h
Hydraulics: Load-sensing, variable-displacement; refined in H
Fuel Tank: ~454 L

Variants

980G (2006–2008): Tier 3 ACERT engine, mechanical joystick, strong Z-bar breakout, heavy-duty axles.
980H (2009–2014): Enhanced powertrain tuning, load-sensing hydraulics, improved HVAC, and better cab insulation.

Overview

Large production loader for quarry, stockpile, and load-out work. G is rugged and serviceable; H adds tech refinements for efficiency and comfort.

Pros High breakout and load capacity.
H has smoother hydraulics and better fuel use.

Cons G burns more fuel under heavy loads.
Large footprint reduces mobility.

Performance & Efficiency

Handles heavy production well. H runs cooler and more efficiently with refined hydraulics and powertrain tuning.

In Comparison

Komatsu WA500-6 matches capacity with faster travel; Volvo L220F rides smoother but costs more upfront.

Verdict

G for remote-site toughness, H for efficiency and operator comfort.

Makana rating

Owner rating

| 3

Market average

AED 500,000

Starting from

AED 200,000

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Wheel loaders. For sale.

https://www.makana.com/79355/56d4027b-84f1-4620-83cf-444671213a06.svg

Customs due

WHL-014

2011 Cat 980K wheel loader

Cat 966 Wheel loaders
2013-2025

The Cat 966 (2013–2025) comes in H and M variants. Operating weight ~23.5–24.6 t, bucket size ~3.2–4.2 m³, power ~195–239 kW (261–321 hp) from the Cat C9.3 ACERT or C9.3B. H is Tier 4 Interim with proven durability; M is Tier 4 Final with Payload, drivetrain refinements, and improved EH controls.

Engine: Cat C9.3 ACERT / C9.3B (~195–239 kW / 261–321 hp)
Operating Weight: ~23,500–24,600 kg
Bucket Capacity: ~3.2–4.2 m³
Breakout Force: ~195–210 kN
Tipping Load (Straight): ~17,000–18,200 kg
Travel Speed: ~37–40 km/h
Hydraulics: Load-sensing, variable-displacement; EH controls on M
Fuel Tank: ~300–350 L

Variants

966H (2013–2016): Tier 4 Interim ACERT, mechanical joystick, robust Z-bar linkage, proven field serviceability.
966M (2017–2025): Tier 4 Final, Payload weighing, more efficient powertrain tuning, improved cab ergonomics, better parallel lift with Optimized Z-bar.

Overview

Heavy-duty loader for quarry, aggregate, and bulk handling. H trim is tough and simple; M trim adds Payload, tech upgrades, and fuel efficiency improvements.

Pros High breakout for quick loading.
M adds Payload and parallel lift improvements.

Cons H burns more fuel than M.
M electronics require skilled servicing.

Performance & Efficiency

Both trims are fast and stable. M's Smart Mode optimizes fuel use and reduces operator fatigue. H is predictable and service-friendly for remote work.

In Comparison

Volvo L150H matches lift but rides smoother; Komatsu WA470-8 has more bucket volume but heavier frame.

Verdict

H for tough-site reliability, M for tech integration and efficiency gains.

25,500 kg Operating weight

34.5 m Max dump height

10,500 kg Lifting capacity

5.6 m3 Bucket capacity

1,280 mm Max dump reach

224.46 kw Gross power

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Makana rating

Owner rating

| 3

Market average

AED 550,000

Starting from

AED 275,000

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Wheel loaders. For sale.

Customs due

WHL-012

2013 Cat 966H wheel loader

2013 Cat 966H wheel loader

Cat 950 Wheel loaders
2006-2025

The Cat 950 series (2006–2025) spans G, GC, H, and M trims. Operating weight ~18.1–20.1 t, bucket sizes ~2.7–4.4 m³, power ~168–186 kW (225–249 hp). G and H target heavy production, GC trims cost for light applications, M adds Payload, advanced hydraulics, and better fuel efficiency.

Engine: C7.1 ACERT / C9 ACERT (~168–186 kW / 225–249 hp)
Operating Weight: ~18,100–20,100 kg
Bucket Capacity: ~2.7–4.4 m³
Breakout Force: ~145–170 kN
Tipping Load (Straight): ~12,500–14,200 kg
Travel Speed: ~37–40 km/h
Hydraulics: Load-sensing, variable-displacement (H, M)
Fuel Tank: ~259–300 L

Variants

950G (2006–2007): Simple, robust, mechanical controls.
950GC (2017–2025): Lower-cost spec, simplified cab and systems for light-duty or intermittent use
950H (2007–2011): Tier 3 ACERT, improved ride control, upgraded cab ergonomics
950M (2014–2025): Tier 4 Final, integrated Payload, optimized Z-bar linkage, better fuel efficiency.

Overview

Mid-size loader balancing capacity and maneuverability. GC suits low-cost utility, G/H bring proven durability, M focuses on efficiency and integrated tech.

Pros Wide trim range from utility to heavy production.
Strong breakout and stability, good resale value.

Cons GC lacks advanced hydraulics and tech.
G and H less fuel efficient than M.

Performance & Efficiency

High breakout across variants. M benefits from adaptive hydraulics, auto-dig, and payload weighing for fewer passes and lower fuel burn. G/H are simpler and tolerant of mixed fuel quality.

In Comparison

Volvo L120H offers smoother hydrostatic feel; Komatsu WA470 matches breakout but carries more weight. Cat’s service network remains a buying advantage.

Verdict

GC for lowest entry cost, G/H for durability, M for efficiency and tech integration.

130.5 kw Gross power

16,500 kg Operating weight

3 cu m Bucket capacity

5,800 kg Lifting capacity

3,100 mm Max dump height

1,080 mm Max dump reach

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Makana rating

Owner rating

| 3

Market average

AED 300,000

Starting from

AED 150,000

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Cat 938 Wheel loaders
2013-2025

The Cat 938 (2013–2025) comes in K and M variants. Operating weight ~14.3–15.0 t, bucket size ~2.5–2.7 m³, power ~129–140 kW (173–188 hp) from the Cat C7.1 ACERT engine. K is Tier 4 Interim with proven Z-bar linkage; M is Tier 4 Final with advanced hydraulics, Payload, and improved fuel efficiency.

Engine: Cat C7.1 ACERT (~129–140 kW / 173–188 hp)
Operating Weight: ~14,300–15,000 kg
Bucket Capacity: ~2.5–2.7 m³
Breakout Force: ~105–115 kN
Tipping Load (Straight): ~9,800–10,300 kg
Travel Speed: ~37–40 km/h
Hydraulics: Load-sensing, variable-displacement; Smart Mode & EH controls (M)
Fuel Tank: ~250 L

Variants

938K (2013–2016): Tier 4 Interim, mechanical joystick, basic monitoring, strong Z-bar breakout.
938M (2017–2025): Tier 4 Final, electro-hydraulic controls, Payload system, Optimized Z-bar for better parallel lift.

Overview

Mid-size loader ideal for bulk handling, snow removal, and plant work. K trim is simple and proven; M trim adds tech features for faster cycles and fuel savings.

Pros Strong breakout for size class.
M adds tech and better fuel efficiency.

Cons K lacks Payload and refined parallel lift.
M electronics require precise servicing.

Performance & Efficiency

Both variants are quick and stable. M's Smart Mode adapts RPM to load for lower fuel use. K stays consistent and simple across job types.

In Comparison

Volvo L70H matches size but is heavier; Deere 644K offers more lift but adds weight.

Verdict

K for reliable simplicity, M for advanced features and efficiency gains.

150.63 kw Gross power

17,500 kg Operating weight

3.5 cu m Bucket capacity

6,500 kg Lifting capacity

3,200 mm Max dump height

1,150 mm Max dump reach

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Makana rating

Owner rating

| 3

Market average

AED 590,000

Starting from

AED 280,000

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Cat 906 Wheel loaders
2015-2022

The Cat 906M (2015–2022) is a compact loader with an operating weight of ~5.6 t, bucket capacity ~0.8–1.0 m³, and net power of ~55.5 kW (74 hp) from a Cat C3.3B engine. It combines skid steer-like agility with loader stability, ideal for tight-site work.

Engine: Cat C3.3B (~55.5 kW / 74 hp)
Operating Weight: ~5,600 kg
Bucket Capacity: ~0.8–1.0 m³
Breakout Force: ~42–45 kN
Tipping Load (Straight): ~3,450 kg
Travel Speed: ~20–35 km/h
Hydraulics: Load-sensing, 100 L/min pump flow
Fuel Tank: ~80 L

Overview

Compact loader for landscaping, municipal, and farm work. Tight turning, parallel-lift arms, and good visibility make it versatile year-round.

Pros Compact size with strong lift.
Parallel lift improves load stability.

Cons Limited bucket size for bulk jobs.
Hydrostatic drive not ideal for long travel.

Performance & Efficiency

Hydrostatic transmission makes it nimble. Parallel-lift arms keep loads level. Load-sensing hydraulics improve control and fuel efficiency.

In Comparison

Volvo L25F matches size with more bucket capacity; JCB 406 offers more clearance but less refined cab.

Verdict

Best suited for operators needing agility over volume in compact loader work.

55.18 kw Gross power

5,600 kg Operating weight

1 cu m Bucket capacity

1,800 kg Lifting capacity

2,300 mm Max dump height

760 mm Max dump reach

See full spec & review

Makana rating

Owner rating

| 3

Market average

AED 300,000

Starting from

AED 200,000

See owner ratings

Cat wheel loader sizes FAQ.

The Cat 906 is the smallest model, with an operating weight of approximately 5,730 kg and maximum gross power of 55.7 kW. Its compact dimensions suit light material handling and restricted worksites.

The Cat 938 weighs approximately 16,115 kg, compared with 5,730 kg for the 906. That makes the 938 about 10.39 tons heavier and places it in Cat’s small wheel-loader class rather than the compact class.

The Cat 906 is the most practical option for confined sites because it is considerably lighter and more compact than the other models. It suits landscaping, maintenance, agriculture and small construction yards.

The Cat 966 and Cat 988 are the strongest quarry-focused options in this group. The 966 offers a balance between size and production, while the heavier 988 is better suited to large stockpiles and high-capacity loading fleets.

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Cat wheel loader sizes

Table of contents

Cat 988 Wheel loaders 2004-2014

Overview

Performance & Efficiency

In Comparison

Final Verdict

Wheel loaders. For sale.

Cat 980 Wheel loaders 2006-2014

Variants

Overview

Performance & Efficiency

In Comparison

Verdict

Wheel loaders. For sale.

Cat 966 Wheel loaders 2013-2025

Variants

Overview

Performance & Efficiency

In Comparison

Verdict

Wheel loaders. For sale.

Cat 950 Wheel loaders 2006-2025

Variants

Overview

Performance & Efficiency

In Comparison

Verdict

Cat 938 Wheel loaders 2013-2025

Variants

Overview

Performance & Efficiency

In Comparison

Verdict

Cat 906 Wheel loaders 2015-2022

Overview

Performance & Efficiency

In Comparison

Verdict

Related machinery rankings

Cat wheel loader sizes FAQ.

Cat 988 Wheel loaders
2004-2014

Cat 980 Wheel loaders
2006-2014

Cat 966 Wheel loaders
2013-2025

Cat 950 Wheel loaders
2006-2025

Cat 938 Wheel loaders
2013-2025

Cat 906 Wheel loaders
2015-2022