How to Choose Between CAT 320 GX and CAT 320: Power, Bucket Capacity, and Configuration Differences

Key Specification Differences

The following comparison uses Tier 3 reference configurations from Caterpillar India's website to avoid mixing different emissions versions. The official CAT 320 GX specifications list a C4.4 engine, ISO 9249 net power of 103.6 kW, and an operating weight of 20,400 kg. The official CAT 320 specifications list a C7.1 engine, net power of 117 kW, and an operating weight of 21,300 kg. The 320 offers 13.4 kW more power than the 320 GX, an increase of approximately 12.9%, while the overall machine is only 900 kg heavier, an increase of about 4.4%.

| Reference Configuration | CAT 320 GX | CAT 320 | |---|---:|---:| | Bucket | 0.93 m³ GD | 1.19 m³ HD | | Max Digging Depth | 6,430 mm | 6,720 mm | | Max Reach at Ground Level | 9,580 mm | 9,860 mm | | Bucket Digging Force | 136 kN | 150 kN | | Stick Digging Force | 106 kN | 106 kN | | Max Hydraulic Flow | 429 L/min | 429 L/min | | Max Swing Torque | 74 kN·m | 82 kN·m |

The 320's reference bucket capacity is 0.26 m³ larger, an increase of approximately 28%; its bucket digging force is 14 kN higher, an increase of about 10.3%; and its maximum digging depth and ground-level digging radius are 290 mm and 280 mm greater, respectively. However, both machines have the same stick digging force and maximum main hydraulic system flow. Therefore, the power difference cannot be simply interpreted as every operation being 12.9% faster. The differences primarily manifest in bucket loading capacity, the margin when penetrating tougher materials, and torque reserves during heavy-load swings.

How Do Loading Cycles Change?

Assuming a loose material density of 1.6 t/m³ and a bucket fill factor of 0.9, and comparing the aforementioned OEM reference buckets: the 320 GX theoretically loads approximately 0.93 × 1.6 × 0.9 = 1.34 t per bucket, while the 320 loads about 1.19 × 1.6 × 0.9 = 1.71 t. To fill a dump truck with a 20 t payload, it would theoretically require about 15 buckets for the 320 GX and 12 buckets for the 320. This reduction of 3 cycles per truck amplifies productivity differences during continuous loading. However, rock particle size, operator skill, truck positioning, and actual bucket model will all alter the results, so this calculation alone should not be used for quoting.

Where Are the Operational Differences Most Apparent?

For general earthmoving, site leveling, trenching, and intermittent loading, if a 0.93 m³ bucket already meets the cycle times of the accompanying vehicles, the 320 GX's 20.4 t configuration is sufficient. However, when working with clay, weathered rock, frequent full-bucket loading, or requiring a 1.19 m³ heavy-duty bucket, the 320's higher bucket force, swing torque, and power become more significant. The transport dimensions of both machines are almost identical: reference transport lengths are 9,570 mm and 9,530 mm, and widths are 2,990 mm and 2,980 mm, respectively. Therefore, one cannot assume that choosing the GX means it will fit into a standard shipping container; the only truly usable transport difference is the 900 kg weight.

Configuration levels also differ. The 320 reference page lists Cat Grade with 2D, Cat Assist, and Cat Payload as standard technologies, suitable for projects requiring grade control, weighing, and repetitive precision. The 320 GX's standard technology list primarily features VisionLink and remote update capabilities. When purchasing used equipment, these functions should be individually verified via serial number and display screen features, rather than assuming their presence based solely on the machine model.

Easysail can verify the year, market version, bucket, and technical configurations of CAT 320 and 320 GX models according to the destination country. We also provide serial numbers, operational videos, inspection records, and disassembly/transportation plans for specific used machines, helping buyers compare available equipment on a consistent basis.