Caterpillar CG170-16 vs Jenbacher J420
The Caterpillar CG170-16 and Jenbacher J420 are both natural gas generator engines in a similar power class. Both are rated at roughly 1,952 kVA. Displacement is 70.8 L versus 61.1 L. The table below compares their full specifications side by side.
| Specification | Caterpillar CG170-16 | Jenbacher J420 |
|---|---|---|
| Headline rating | 1,950 kVA | 1,953 kVA |
| Standby (50 Hz) | — | — |
| Prime (50 Hz) | 1,560 kWe | 1,562 kWe |
| Standby (60 Hz) | — | — |
| Prime (60 Hz) | 1,560 kWe | 1,427 kWe |
| Displacement | 70.8 L | 61.1 L |
| Configuration | V16 | V20 |
| Cylinders | 16 | 20 |
| Rated speed | 1,500 / 1,800 RPM | 1,500 / 1,800 RPM |
| Fuel | Natural Gas | Natural Gas |
| Cooling | Liquid-Cooled | Liquid-Cooled |
| Emissions | Unregulated | Unregulated |
| Dry weight | — | — |
| Origin | Germany | Austria |
Choosing between Caterpillar CG170-16 and Jenbacher J420
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 Jenbacher J420 has the higher headline kVA rating in this pair, but site conditions and duty cycle can still change the final recommendation.