About · Hitachi ZX470Overview
The Hitachi ZX470 is a large-class hydraulic excavator with an operating weight of 50,255 kg and an engine output of 362 hp, positioning it firmly in the 50-tonne segment of the market. Standard bucket capacity is rated at 2.1 m3, making it suited to high-volume digging and loading cycles. The model has been in continuous production since 2003, reflecting a long-established platform with broad parts and service support across multiple regions.
Typical applicationsWhere this machine is used
Machines in this weight and power class are deployed on large earthmoving contracts, quarry face-loading, heavy civil infrastructure works, and bulk material handling where production rates demand a high-capacity bucket and robust hydraulic performance. The 50-tonne class is also commonly specified for deep-cut drainage, dam construction, and large-scale land-clearing operations. Port and industrial site applications that require heavy reach and lift capacity are equally typical for this segment.
Used-market inspectionWhat to check before buying
Pre-purchase inspection on any 50-tonne excavator should prioritise undercarriage wear, as track chains, rollers, and sprockets represent a significant portion of lifecycle cost in this class. Hydraulic cylinder seals, boom and arm cracking at high-stress weld points, and swing bearing play are standard focus areas during a physical walk-around. Request all available service documentation to verify oil-change intervals and any history of hydraulic or structural repair. Given the ZX470's production span from 2003 to present, confirm the specific model year and any regional emissions or specification variants before proceeding. Attachment compatibility should be verified against the machine's hydraulic flow and pressure ratings, particularly where a hammer or specialist bucket is intended for use.
Current marketPrice position
The Hitachi ZX470 competes directly with the Hyundai R520 and the Kobelco SK500, all three occupying the 50-tonne large-excavator segment. Against the Hyundai R520, the ZX470 carries a marginally lower operating weight, while the Kobelco SK500 positions slightly above the ZX470 in nominal size class. Hitachi's long production run since 2003 means the fleet spans a wide age spread, which in turn creates meaningful variation within the segment. Within any cohort of ZX470 units, the attributes that move a machine within its price band include recorded service hours, undercarriage wear condition, hydraulic system integrity, availability of a quick-coupler or dedicated attachments such as hammers or grading buckets, regional specification differences, and overall cosmetic and structural condition. Machines in long-term fleet ownership with documented maintenance histories typically command stronger positioning than those with unknown service records.