Caterpillar G3516 vs MTU 12V4000 GS
The Caterpillar G3516 and MTU 12V4000 GS are both natural gas generator engines in a similar power class. Both are rated at roughly 1,890 kVA. Displacement is 78.1 L versus 57.2 L. The table below compares their full specifications side by side.
| Specification | Caterpillar G3516 | MTU 12V4000 GS |
|---|---|---|
| Headline rating | 1,875 kVA | 1,904 kVA |
| Standby (50 Hz) | — | — |
| Prime (50 Hz) | 1,500 kWe | 1,523 kWe |
| Standby (60 Hz) | 1,500 kWe | — |
| Prime (60 Hz) | — | — |
| Displacement | 78.1 L | 57.2 L |
| Configuration | V16 | V12 |
| Cylinders | 16 | 12 |
| Rated speed | 1,500 / 1,800 RPM | 1,500 RPM |
| Fuel | Natural Gas | Natural Gas |
| Cooling | Liquid-Cooled | Liquid-Cooled |
| Emissions | U.S. EPA Stationary | Unregulated |
| Dry weight | — | — |
| Origin | United States | Germany |
Choosing between Caterpillar G3516 and MTU 12V4000 GS
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 MTU 12V4000 GS has the higher headline kVA rating in this pair, but site conditions and duty cycle can still change the final recommendation.