Caterpillar D8L SA vs John Deere 8970
Side-by-side specs comparison
Verdict by the numbers
- The Caterpillar D8L SA and the John Deere 8970 deliver the same power: 400 HP.
- The John Deere 8970 is the more recent model: production started in 1993, versus 1984 for the Caterpillar D8L SA.
Full specs comparison
| Caterpillar D8L SA | John Deere 8970 | |
|---|---|---|
| Power | 400 HP | 400 HP |
| Production years | 1984–1987 | 1993–1996 |
| Fuel | Diesel | Diesel |
| Cylinders | 8 | 6 |
| Displacement | 18 L | 14 L |
| Weight | — | 15 265 kg |
| Drive | — | 4WD |
| Transmission | Power shift | Partial power shift |
| Gears (fwd/rev) | — | 12 / 3 |
| Wheelbase | — | 340 cm |
| Length | — | 683 cm |
| Cab | Yes | Yes |
Frequently asked questions
Which is more powerful, the Caterpillar D8L SA or the John Deere 8970?
The Caterpillar D8L SA and the John Deere 8970 deliver the same power: 400 HP.
Which is more recent, the Caterpillar D8L SA or the John Deere 8970?
The John Deere 8970 is the more recent model: production started in 1993, versus 1984 for the Caterpillar D8L SA.

