
Caterpillar · Excavators
CAT 312 Small Excavator
The CAT 312 has an operating weight of 33,069 lb and a 94 hp engine, with a maximum dig depth of 15.6 ft.
Updated October 2026

How much is a used CAT 312 worth?
HeavyDutyYard estimates a used CAT 312 at $65,500–$160,000 (our estimate, not yet checked against recent sales).
Not yet checked against recent sales. Year, hours and condition decide where a unit lands.
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About the CAT 312 Small Excavator
The CAT 312 Small Excavator is a small-class excavator built 2008-2020.
Owners mostly put it to work on general excavation, demolition, trenching.
Specifications
Engine & Power
- Engine
- Cat C4.4
- Horsepower
- 94 HP
- Fuel Tank
- 68 gal
Dimensions & Weight
- Operating Weight
- 33069 lbs
Performance
- Max Dig Depth
- 15.6 ft
- Max Reach
- 24.8 ft
- Bucket Capacity
- 0.62 cu yd
- Tail Swing
- Standard
Configuration
- Size Class
- Small
- Years Produced
- 2008-2020
Weight, power, and capacity figures checked October 2026 against 312E L (matches 2008-2020 years). Older or newer generations of this model may differ.
Model Generations
Common Applications
- General excavation
- Demolition
- Trenching
Popular Attachments
Common Configurations
How It Compares
| Spec | CAT 312 Small Excavator | Komatsu PC160LC-7 Small Excavator | Volvo EC220 Medium Excavator | Hitachi ZX200 Medium Excavator |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine HP | 94 HP | 115.4 HP | 171.7 HP | 164 HP |
| Op. Weight | 33,069 lbs | 37,787 lbs | 53,460 lbs | 44,092 lbs |
| Max Dig Depth | 15.6 | 19.6 | 22.1 | 20.8 |
| Est. Price Low | $65,500 | — | $35,000 | $112,000 |
| Est. Price High | $160,000 | — | $135,000 | $245,000 |
Against the Komatsu PC160, the CAT 312 is 4,718 lb lighter, has 21.4 less hp and has 4 ft less max dig depth.
Against the Volvo EC220, the CAT 312 is 20,391 lb lighter, has 77.7 less hp and has 6.5 ft less max dig depth.
Against the Hitachi ZX200, the CAT 312 is 11,023 lb lighter, has 70 less hp and has 5.2 ft less max dig depth.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does the CAT 312 weigh?
The CAT 312 has an operating weight of 33,069 lb and a 94 hp engine. Cab, counterweight, tracks, and attachments can move the real weight of a given unit up or down from this spec figure, so check the serial plate or the OEM spec sheet for the exact build before booking transport.
How much is a used CAT 312 worth?
HeavyDutyYard estimates a used CAT 312 at $65,500–$160,000 (our estimate, not yet checked against recent sales).
Where can I sell my CAT 312?
Send HeavyDutyYard the year, hours, and condition of your CAT 312 and we reply within one business day. We make cash offers on some machines; otherwise we list yours free on the HeavyDutyYard marketplace, where we review every listing and screen buyer messages before they reach you. Transport is coordinated when we buy.
What is the CAT 312 used for?
The CAT 312 Small Excavator is commonly used for general excavation, demolition, trenching.