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See how the John Deere 325G stacks up to the Cat 289D
Note: The 325G was replaced by the 325P-Tier.
Choosing the right Compact Track Loader comes down to more than one number on a spec sheet. Horsepower, operating weight, rated operating capacity, hydraulic flow, visibility, service access, and dealer support all affect how a machine performs on real jobsites.
The John Deere 325G and Cat 289D are both vertical-lift Compact Track Loaders built for contractors who need strong lift height, attachment flexibility, and stable performance. The Cat 289D has the higher published rated operating capacity and a heavier operating weight. The John Deere 325G is lighter, still delivers 74 gross horsepower, and is built around everyday serviceability, visibility, attachment use, and local John Deere support from CL Boyd.
The top things to know when comparing the John Deere 325G to the Cat 289D:
- The 325G gives contractors a strong balance of horsepower, operating weight, rated operating capacity, hydraulic performance, and jobsite maneuverability.
- The 325G is lighter than the Cat 289D while still offering 74 gross horsepower, 2,590 pounds of rated operating capacity, and 32 gallons per minute of optional high-flow hydraulic capability.
- The 325G is built for everyday productivity, with service access, attachment support, and local John Deere dealer backing from CL Boyd all playing an important role beyond the numbers on the spec sheet.
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John Deere 325G vs. Cat 289D Specs
Official manufacturer specs show both machines sitting in a similar horsepower class, but with different weight, capacity, and hydraulic profiles.
| John Deere 325G Name | John Deere 325G Value | Cat 289D Name | Cat 289D Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gross horsepower | 74 hp | Gross horsepower | 74.3 hp |
| Operating weight | 9,500 lb | Operating weight | 10,533 lb |
| Rated operating capacity | 2,590 lb | Rated operating capacity at 35% tipping load | 2,660 lb |
| Tipping load | 7,400 lb | Tipping load | 7,600 lb |
| Standard pump flow | 21 gpm | Standard hydraulic flow | 23 gpm |
| Optional high-flow pump flow | 32 gpm | High Flow XPS maximum hydraulic flow | 32 gpm |
| Hydraulic system pressure | 3,450 psi | Standard hydraulic pressure | 3,335 psi |
| Bucket breakout force | 8,750 lb | Breakout force - tilt cylinder | 7,291 lb |
| Ground bearing pressure | 5.7 psi | Ground pressure with 400 mm tracks | 5.2 psi |
| Maximum travel speed | 8.2 mph | Maximum travel speed | 7 mph |
| Ground pressure with optional wider tracks | 4.7 psi with 400 mm tracks | Ground pressure with 450 mm tracks | 4.6 psi |
| Rated operating capacity at 50% tipping load | 3,700 lb | Rated operating capacity at 50% tipping load | 3,800 lb |
Spec data sourced from official John Deere and Caterpillar product specifications.
Which machine is better for your work?
Choose the John Deere 325G if you want a mid-frame Compact Track Loader that balances power, visibility, service access, and attachment versatility. Its 9,500-pound operating weight makes it lighter than the Cat 289D, while still delivering 74 gross horsepower and a 2,590-pound rated operating capacity.
Choose the Cat 289D if your buying decision is driven mainly by rated operating capacity, machine weight, or the specific Cat undercarriage and control package. Caterpillar lists the 289D with a 10,533-pound operating weight and a 3,800-pound rated operating capacity at 50% tipping load.
For many contractors, the spec sheet is only part of the decision. Comfort, visibility, maintenance access, dealer support, attachment needs, and how the machine feels in real jobsite conditions all matter. That is why a demo is the best next step before choosing between the 325G and 289D.
Serviceability and daily use
Spec numbers matter, but daily maintenance matters too. A Compact Track Loader that is easier to inspect, clean, and service can help reduce downtime and keep operators more productive. The 325G is built with serviceability in mind, including access points designed to make daily checks and maintenance more straightforward.
For contractors running attachments, John Deere offers more than 100 attachments across the John Deere portfolio, with optional high-flow hydraulics available for tools such as snow blowers, rotary cutters, and brooms. The practical takeaway: compare more than horsepower and lift capacity. Look at how often operators need to service the machine, change attachments, work in tight spaces, load trucks, and move across uneven ground.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a John Deere 325G weigh?
John Deere lists the 325G Compact Track Loader at 9,500 pounds operating weight.
How much does a Cat 289D weigh?
Caterpillar lists the Cat 289D Compact Track Loader at 10,533 pounds operating weight.
How much horsepower does the John Deere 325G have?
John Deere lists the 325G at 74 gross horsepower and 70 net horsepower.
How much horsepower does the Cat 289D have?
Caterpillar lists the 289D at 74.3 gross horsepower and 72.9 net horsepower.
Which has more rated operating capacity, the John Deere 325G or Cat 289D?
Based on official manufacturer specs, the Cat 289D has the higher published rated operating capacity. Caterpillar lists the 289D at 3,800 pounds at 50% tipping load, while John Deere lists the 325G at 2,590 pounds rated operating capacity.
When choosing the right Compact Track Loader, consider size, performance, accuracy, comfort, and maintenance. While both machines offer useful features, the John Deere 325G stands out in key areas for contractors who value everyday visibility, serviceability, attachment support, and local dealer backing. The best way to know for sure? Take it for a spin.
Request A Quote | 325G Product Brochure
New John Deere Compact Construction Equipment is backed by a standard warranty covering defects in materials or workmanship for two years or 2,000 hours, whichever comes first. See CL Boyd for complete warranty details.