In the early 1970s, Caterpillar found itself behind in the booming hydraulic excavator market, where competitors like Bucyrus, Link-Belt, and Warner & Swasey led the way. Recognizing the urgent need to catch up, Caterpillar launched a line that would change its history forever—the 200-series excavators.
The journey began in 1972 with the 225, Caterpillar’s first fully in-house designed hydraulic excavator. Powered by a CAT 3168 engine (later upgraded to the 3208), and equipped with a 1-cubic-yard bucket, the 225 quickly gained global success. This machine laid the groundwork for a revolution in CAT’s approach to construction equipment.
Building on that momentum, the company introduced the 235 in 1973. Larger and more powerful, it featured a 195-horsepower CAT 3306 engine and a 37-metric-ton operating weight. It was also available in a face shovel configuration, marking Caterpillar’s flexibility in adapting to varied job site needs.
In 1975, the line culminated in the 245, a true heavyweight powered by a 325-horsepower CAT 3406 engine. With an operating weight of 65 metric tons and a bucket capacity of up to 3.8 cubic yards, it became a flagship model. The 245 also came in a face shovel version and was often paired with Caterpillar dump trucks for large-scale earthmoving.
The 215, released in 1976, completed the lineup as a compact counterpart, giving the 200-series a broad appeal. By the early 1990s, the 200-series was succeeded by the 300-series, including models like the 322B and 375.
Today, the 200-series is remembered not just for its machines, but for reshaping Caterpillar’s place in the industry—transforming the brand into a leader in hydraulic excavators.
