Cat 310 vs. Kubota KX080: Is a Pre-Owned Caterpillar Worth the Premium?

In the competitive world of earthmoving and construction, the 8-to-10-ton excavator class has become the sweet spot for many contractors. These machines are large enough to handle heavy lifting and significant utility work, yet compact enough to transport without requiring a lowboy trailer and special permits in many regions. Standing tall in this arena are two industry titans: the Caterpillar 310 and the Kubota KX080-4 (or the newer -5 series).

For fleet managers and owner-operators, the dilemma often isn’t just about brand loyalty; it is about value. While Kubota is renowned for its reliability and attractive price point, Caterpillar brings a reputation for raw power, advanced technology, and resale value. However, the “Cat premium” on a new machine can be steep. This leads many savvy buyers to ask: Is a Pre-owned Caterpillar worth the investment over a comparable Kubota?

To answer this, we need to dive deep into the specifications, performance capabilities, and the long-term financial reality of owning these machines.

The Heavyweights: Defining the Contenders

Before dissecting the value proposition, it is essential to understand that while these machines compete for the same jobs, they are technically in slightly different weight classes. The Kubota KX080 is a true 8-ton machine. It has dominated this specific sector for years due to its simplicity and the sheer reliability of the Kubota engine.

The Cat 310, introduced as part of Caterpillar’s Next Generation line, is technically a 10-ton machine. However, it is physically designed to compete in the 8-ton footprint. Caterpillar’s strategy was to pack the power and hydraulic capability of a larger machine into a body that fits on the same trailer as an 8-ton unit. This distinction is crucial when evaluating performance.

Performance and Hydraulic Power

When you are on a deadline, breakout force and cycle times matter. This is where the difference between the two machines becomes most apparent.

The Kubota KX080 is a workhorse. It offers respectable digging depth and breakout force that will satisfy the needs of general utility contractors. It is smooth, predictable, and does exactly what you ask of it. However, because it is an 8-ton machine, it has limitations regarding heavy lifting and hydraulic attachment performance.

The Cat 310 offers a different experience. Because it carries more weight and features a more aggressive hydraulic system, it provides significantly higher lifting capacity and breakout force. For operators running heavy attachments like mulchers, brush cutters, or hoe packs, the Cat 310’s high-flow auxiliary hydraulics are often superior. When performing a direct Cat 310 comparison against the KX080, the Cat feels more planted and robust when handling maximum loads at full reach.

The Technology Gap: Next Gen Features

The primary argument for paying a premium for a Caterpillar—even a used one—lies in the technology. The Next Gen Cat mini excavators revolutionized the market with features that were previously reserved for large mining equipment.

The standout feature is “Stick Steer.” This allows the operator to switch from traditional travel levers and pedals to controlling the machine’s movement entirely with the left joystick, similar to a skid steer loader. For backfilling, traveling long distances, or working on slopes, this feature significantly reduces operator fatigue and increases efficiency.

Furthermore, the Cat 310 comes standard with a sealed and pressurized cab, a customizable LCD monitor, and cruise control. While Kubota has updated its interior in the -5 series to be more modern and comfortable, it still leans towards a more traditional, analog operating experience. If your operators demand modern comforts and customizable hydraulic settings for different attachments, the Cat 310 holds a distinct advantage.

Reliability and Maintenance

Kubota’s claim to fame is the “bulletproof” nature of its engines. There is a reason why so many other manufacturers use Kubota engines in their equipment. The KX080 is simple to fix, parts are generally affordable, and it has a massive support network. For a small owner-operator who does their own wrenching, the simplicity of the Kubota is a major selling point.

Caterpillar, however, counters this with a global support network that is unrivaled. Parts availability for Cat machines is legendary; it is rare to wait long for a critical component. While the Cat 310 is more complex electronically than the Kubota, the build quality is robust. When buying used, a thorough inspection is necessary for both, but Cat’s rigorous certified used programs often provide extra peace of mind regarding the machine’s maintenance history.

The Financial Argument: Why Pay the Premium?

This is the crux of the debate. A new Cat 310 costs significantly more than a new Kubota KX080. However, when you enter the market for a used mini excavator, that gap narrows, and the value proposition shifts in favor of the Cat.

1. Depreciation Curves

Caterpillar equipment notoriously holds its value better than almost any other brand. This is known as the “Yellow Iron” phenomenon. When you buy a pre-owned Cat 310, the original owner has already absorbed the steepest part of the depreciation curve. Because the demand for used Cat equipment is always high globally, you can operate the machine for two or three years and likely sell it for close to what you paid for it, assuming it is well-maintained. Kubota also holds value well, but generally not at the same percentage as Caterpillar in the heavier weight classes.

2. Versatility as Revenue

If the Cat 310 allows you to run high-flow attachments that the Kubota cannot handle efficiently, the machine generates more revenue. Being able to accept a mulching contract or a heavy lifting job because your 10-ton machine fits on an 8-ton site plan means the premium price you paid for the machine is paid back through increased billable hours.

3. Operator Retention

In a tight labor market, retaining skilled operators is difficult. Operators generally prefer the machine that is most comfortable and requires the least physical effort to operate. The Stick Steer, air conditioning efficiency, and smooth hydraulics of the Cat 310 can actually be a hiring tool. A pre-owned Cat 310 allows you to provide a premium operator environment without the price tag of a brand-new unit.

Verdict: Making the Choice

So, is the pre-owned Cat 310 worth the premium over the Kubota KX080?

If your business revolves around straightforward digging, trenching, and utility work where speed and low operating costs are the only metrics, the Kubota KX080 is a fantastic, logical choice. It is a safe bet that will serve you well.

However, if your work requires versatility, heavy lifting, or the use of hydraulic-intensive attachments, the Cat 310 is in a league of its own. It effectively gives you the power of a 10-ton excavator with the portability of a midi-excavator. When you purchase a used Cat 310, you are getting access to top-tier technology and performance for a fraction of the new cost, all while parking your money in an asset that retains its value exceptionally well.

Conclusion

Choosing between a Cat 310 and a Kubota KX080 is a good problem to have, as both are market leaders for a reason. Yet, for those looking to maximize ROI, a second-hand Caterpillar 310 presents a compelling case. It offers a level of power and technological sophistication that the competition struggles to match, ensuring that your fleet is future-proofed against demanding job site requirements. By opting for a high-quality used machine, you mitigate the initial cost barrier while reaping the benefits of premium performance and resale stability.