Competitive Comparison: Bobcat T76 vs. Cat 289D3 Compact Track Loader

Summary

If you’re comparing the Bobcat T76 to the Cat 289D3 loader, here are the top things to know: 

• You’ll get a more maneuverable machine and a higher fuel capacity from the Bobcat T76 vs. the Cat loader – with no sacrifice in rated operating capacity (ROC) or horsepower. 

• The T76 boasts a higher hinge-pin height than the Cat model for superior dumping ability at the top of the arm’s reach. 

• If you have a need for speed, the Bobcat T76 has a faster 1-Speed and 2-Speed. 

• Highly responsive selectable joystick controls allow for super-precise movement and better control in the Bobcat T76. 

• There’s a panoramic view from the cab of the Bobcat T76, with a clear-side enclosure option, big windows and standard LED lights. 

• Patented 5-Link torsion suspension undercarriage and automatic ride control give the T76 a smooth ride. 

• The T76’s non-DPF engine cuts the risk of pricey maintenance costs and downtime. 

Keep scrolling for a more detailed look at these two models. 

Get a head-to-head look at two powerful compact track loaders: the Bobcat T76 and the Cat 289D3. 

Shopping for a compact track loader should be as easy as using a compact track loader on your construction or landscaping jobsite. Unfortunately, the sheer quantity of choices can overwhelm even the most determined operator.

But never fear: We’re here to help you make the right pick with our side-by-side comparison of two popular compact track loaders: the Bobcat T76 and the Cat 289D3.

Size and Performance Comparison

Right away you’ll notice the compact package of the Bobcat T76 vs. the Cat 289D3. The Cat model is wider, longer, taller and heavier at 10,668 pounds compared to the Bobcat model’s nimble 10,250 pounds.

But don’t be fooled into thinking the T76’s smaller dimensions make it weak; the Bobcat model has a nearly identical rated operating capacity (ROC) to the Cat model – 2,900 pounds vs. 2,890 pounds for Cat – but its smaller size makes it more maneuverable than the 289D3.

The T76 also matches the 74-horsepower, turbocharged engine of the Cat model and packs more fuel capacity into its small-but-mighty frame (31.7 gal to Cat’s 27.7 gal), giving you more working hours without refueling. So if you’re looking for a machine that fits in super-tight spaces yet can still crank out powerful reps, the Bobcat T76 has the advantage over Cat. 

Both Bobcat and Cat models use a vertical lift arm, so each works well for the typical loading, material handling, backfilling and dumping-over-the-side-of-a-dump-truck maneuvers you expect from a compact track loader.

However, the Bobcat T76 boasts a higher hinge-pin height – a slam-dunk-worthy 128.3 inches to the Cat 289D3’s 125.1 inches – giving you superior dumping ability at the top of the arm’s reach. 

In terms of productivity, the Bobcat T76 outpaces the Cat 289D3. With a 6.8 mph working speed and a 9.2 mph travel speed, the Bobcat model gets more done in less time than the plodding 4.5 mph low/8.3 mph high speed of the Cat loader.