Equipment Focus: Cat 320 Excavator

Looking for a 20T excavator like the Cat 320 excavator? We’ve discussed smaller excavators like the Kubota, and similar excavators like the Komatsu. Now we’re finally shining light on the Caterpillar 320D L 20-tonne excavator.

In this article:

• Caterpillar 320D L video
• Find out the unique features of this excavator
• Take a look inside the cab
• Cat 320 excavator specifications
• Caterpillar 320D L Q&A
• Cat 320 excavator gallery of images

Related: Caterpillar or Komatsu? Find out which excavator you should choose.

Caterpillar 320D L 20T Excavator Walkaround Video

Disclaimer: This video may showcase an overseas model. Configurations may differ from the Australian model.

Cat 320 Excavator Overview

First released to the market in 2006, the Caterpillar 320D L is part of the manufacturer’s D series of excavators and is a long-carriage machine. Fun fact, this excavator was featured in the Hollywood 007 movie, Skyfall in 2012. In order to do this, Cat had to re-design the 320D L model to move the cab from one side to the other, to be in-line with the cast and crew’s production needs. Neat, huh?

The D series, according to Caterpillar, was created to incorporate “innovations for improved performance and versatility”. It’s also been designed to minimise operating costs wherever possible.

“The caterpillar 320D L excavator provides all the elements to give you the lowest cost to own and operate.”

—Caterpillar

Great for digging work (obviously), this excavator is also powerful enough to tackle digging in river canals and rock walls. Control circuits are available as attachments, meaning this excavator can also handle mid-to-high pressure tools such as grapples, hammers, pulverisers, multiprocessors and vibratory plate compactors. They can also come with a long arm for extended reach.

What’s the 320D L Caterpillar Excavator Cab Like?

The cab and operator’s station is narrow but comfortable. Coming standard with a lighter, drink holder, coat hook, service meter and storage compartment, you’ll not want for anything in this machine.

In the later models of the 320D L, the controls have been updated and redesigned for easier operation and improved comfort. Vibrations and sound levels are lower thanks to the rubber cab mounts, making for a much more pleasant operating experience.

How powerful is the Caterpillar 320D L excavator?

The Cat 320 excavator comes with a powerful Cat C6.4 engine with ACERT technology. Delivering 7% more power than the previous models and up to 148 net horsepower.

In short, there’s enough power in the engine to get your job done effectively.

What are the Cat 320D L specs?

See below for a quick table of specifications for the Caterpillar 320D L.

Quick Q&A:

How much does the Caterpillar 320D L excavator weigh?

The Caterpillar 320D L has an operating weight between 20,330kg and 21,570kg, depending if it is standard or long undercarriage.

How much does the Caterpillar 320D L excavator cost?

Caterpillar 320D L models cost between $71,940 and $225,000, averaging at $122,801 (used). The current average price of a 320D L is $108,800.*

What is the Caterpillar 320D L excavator used for?

The Caterpillar 320D L is ideal for digging, trenching, rock breaking and other excavation work. With the right attachments, it can also grapple, hammer, pulverise and compact dirt.

What size excavator do I need? Would the 320D L suit?

A 20T excavator is ideal for those larger earthmoving jobs, where a smaller excavator just wouldn’t keep up. 

Is the Caterpillar 320D L suitable for stump removal?

While stump removal can be done with much smaller excavators, the Cat 320D L would make light work of tree stumps and clear them faster than smaller excavators.

Where can I rent or buy an excavator 320D L?

There are plenty of Caterpillar 320D Ls for sale in Australia. Take a look at our listings on machines4U to see what’s available.

Have you operated the Cat 320D L? Let us know below, or find other Caterpillar excavators for sale in Australia.

Cat 320 Excavator Gallery

Please note, this gallery showcases early models.

*Prices are indicative of Machines4U listing data by sellers/advertisers and are an approximation only. Data is correct up to and at time of publishing. Prices may change and need to be verified with individual sellers.