Caterpillar 3408 vs Volvo Penta TAD1355GE
The Caterpillar 3408 and Volvo Penta TAD1355GE are both diesel generator engines in a similar power class. Both are rated at roughly 458 kVA. Displacement is 18 L versus 12.8 L. The table below compares their full specifications side by side.
| Specification | Caterpillar 3408 | Volvo Penta TAD1355GE |
|---|---|---|
| Headline rating | 456 kVA | 459 kVA |
| Standby (50 Hz) | 365 kWe | 367 kWe |
| Prime (50 Hz) | 330 kWe | 334 kWe |
| Standby (60 Hz) | 440 kWe | 353 kWe |
| Prime (60 Hz) | 400 kWe | 323 kWe |
| Displacement | 18 L | 12.8 L |
| Configuration | V8 | L6 |
| Cylinders | 8 | 6 |
| Rated speed | 1,500 / 1,800 RPM | 1,500 / 1,800 RPM |
| Fuel | Diesel | Diesel |
| Cooling | Liquid-Cooled | Liquid-Cooled |
| Emissions | U.S. EPA Tier 2 | Euro Stage IIIA / U.S. EPA Tier 3 |
| Dry weight | — | — |
| Origin | United States | Sweden |
Choosing between Caterpillar 3408 and Volvo Penta TAD1355GE
Use this comparison as an engineering shortlist, then confirm the complete generator package against load profile, voltage, 50/60 Hz frequency, duty class, emissions rules, cooling margin, altitude, ambient temperature, enclosure design, controller features, and alternator sizing. The Volvo Penta TAD1355GE has the higher headline kVA rating in this pair, but site conditions and duty cycle can still change the final recommendation.