Kubota · Compact

Kubota L3970

~$34,979

MSRP, base build

KubotaL3970
Compact
39 hp engine · 30.9 PTO−21% to the shaft

Cheapest way into Grand L70 Premium trim, and the point where the range turns to turbocharging. At 39 hp it makes less peak power than the $1,791 dearer L4270 but carries the jog dial, loader joystick and full 9.83 gpm pump.

Engine
39 hp
PTO
30.9 hp
Loader lift
1,726 lbs
3-pt lift
2,646 lbs

0.88 PTO hp per $1,000 of list price

As published by the maker

Specifications

Size class
Compact
Transmission
Hydrostatic
Engine
Kubota
Engine hp
39 hp
PTO hp
30.9 hp
Drive
4WD
Loader lift
1,726 lbs
Three-point lift
2,646 lbs
Hydraulic flow
9.83 GPM
Weight
4,057 lbs
Warranty
6 yr / 2000 hr powertrain
4WD
Yes
Cab
Open station
Turbo
Yes
Cruise control
No

On the price: The maker's own published starting figure for the base build. A dealer adds a loader, a deck and freight on top.

Lift figures are the maker's and are quoted at whichever point the maker chose; the about page explains why two loaders with the same number do not lift the same pallet.

Comes with

4WDHydrostaticFront LoaderPower SteeringDieselTurbo

From owner discussion and long-term write-ups

What owners say

What they like

  • 9.83 gpm - the full Premium pump output, matched only by the three dearer models in the range
  • Turbocharged D1803-CR-TE5 makes 109.4 lbf-ft of torque against the naturally aspirated L3770's 84.2
  • Multi-function loader joystick with third-function control and drive-mode selection under the thumb
  • Jog dial K-Command display with optional remote start and front and rear cameras
  • 4,057 lb ROPS weight on a 77 in wheelbase, longer and heavier than either Deluxe model

What they complain about

  • 39 hp and 30.9 PTO hp is less than the cheaper-to-run four-cylinder L4270 delivers
  • Turbocharging on a three-cylinder puts more heat and complexity into the smallest engine in the range
  • Same 1,726 lb LA806 loader as the two Deluxe models, so Premium trim adds no lifting ability
  • Kubota publishes no fuel tank capacity for the series

Cross-shopped against

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Loader
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3-pt
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Trans
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