Caterpillar C9 vs Volvo Penta TAD1380GE
The Caterpillar C9 and Volvo Penta TAD1380GE are both diesel generator engines in a similar power class. Both are rated at roughly 332 kVA. Displacement is 8.8 L versus 12.8 L. The table below compares their full specifications side by side.
| Specification | Caterpillar C9 | Volvo Penta TAD1380GE |
|---|---|---|
| Headline rating | 330 kVA | 333 kVA |
| Standby (50 Hz) | 264 kWe | 266 kWe |
| Prime (50 Hz) | 240 kWe | 242 kWe |
| Standby (60 Hz) | 300 kWe | — |
| Prime (60 Hz) | 270 kWe | — |
| Displacement | 8.8 L | 12.8 L |
| Configuration | L6 | L6 |
| Cylinders | 6 | 6 |
| Rated speed | 1,500 / 1,800 RPM | 1,500 RPM |
| Fuel | Diesel | Diesel |
| Cooling | Liquid-Cooled | Liquid-Cooled |
| Emissions | U.S. EPA Tier 3 | Euro Stage V |
| Dry weight | — | — |
| Origin | United States | Sweden |
Choosing between Caterpillar C9 and Volvo Penta TAD1380GE
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 TAD1380GE has the higher headline kVA rating in this pair, but site conditions and duty cycle can still change the final recommendation.