Best 8x4 Truck? MAN CLA 31.300 vs Tata Signa 3518.T

Introduction

In the rugged world of infrastructure, mining, and large-scale construction, the role of heavy commercial vehicles cannot be overstated. Among them, 8x4 tipper trucks stand out as the backbone of bulk haulage, capable of enduring extreme terrains while moving massive loads. Two names frequently echo across the industry: the MAN CLA 31.300 EVO 8x4 and the Tata Signa 3518.T.

Both are engineered with resilience and performance in mind. Yet, for businesses and fleet operators, the question remains — which of these heavy-duty giants is better suited for your operational demands? Let’s dissect their specifications, features, and value to arrive at a clear verdict.

Specifications & Features Comparison

Specification	MAN CLA 31.300 EVO 8x4	Tata Signa 3518.T
Engine	6,900 cc, BS-IV compliant	5,600 cc CUMMINS ISBe 5.6L, BS-VI
Power Output	300 HP	180 HP
Torque	1,150 Nm	850 Nm
Transmission	9-speed manual	Manual
Fuel Tank Capacity	200 liters	365 liters
Mileage (Approx.)	6–8 kmpl	4.5 kmpl
Gradeability	48%	Not officially specified
Top Speed	Not available	80 km/h
Gross Vehicle Weight	31,000 kg	35,000 kg
Payload Capacity	14,230 kg	26,000 kg
Turning Radius	10,000 mm	19,900 mm
Brakes	Air brakes with ABS	Air brakes
Rear Suspension	Heavy-duty bogie type	Semi-elliptical multi-leaf springs
Cabin Type	Day cabin	Sleeper cabin (Signa platform)
Tyres	12 (11.00 x 20)	12 (standard heavy-duty tyres)
Emission Norms	BS-IV	BS-VI

Performance & Utility: A Deeper Dive

Where the MAN CLA 31.300 exudes sheer mechanical might, the Tata Signa 3518.T counters with modern compliance and logistical finesse. The MAN truck's 300 HP engine, coupled with a high torque output of 1,150 Nm, renders it a beast in uphill hauls and mining operations where brute strength is non-negotiable. It’s designed to endure punishment—its 48% gradeability ensures it doesn’t falter where the terrain turns treacherous.

On the other hand, the Tata Signa 3518.T may not match MAN’s horsepower, but its 35,000 kg GVW and an industry-leading 26,000 kg payload capacity give it a clear edge in terms of hauling volume. With a massive 365-liter fuel tank, this truck is built to run longer distances with fewer refueling interruptions—ideal for inter-city or rural transit.

Price Insights

In terms of investment, both trucks reside in a similar price corridor:

Truck	Ex-Showroom Price (Gurugram)
MAN CLA 31.300 EVO 8x4	39.00 lakh INR*
Tata Signa 3518.T	38.58 – 39.42 lakh INR* (varies by variant)

Conclusion: Which One Should You Choose?

Here’s where the conversation pivots from data to strategy. If your operations are centered around construction sites, quarries, or mining areas, where torque, gradeability, and off-road durability take precedence, the MAN CLA 31.300 EVO 8x4 emerges as the more suitable candidate. It is robust, well-balanced, and engineered to tackle challenging inclines with ease. Conversely, if your business thrives on long-distance heavy material transport, where volume, fuel capacity, and modern compliance with BS-VI norms are key differentiators, then the Tata Signa 3518.T will serve as the more prudent long-term partner. Its higher payload and larger tank capacity give it a cost-efficiency advantage for logistics-heavy applications.

• Choose MAN if power and terrain-conquering ability are your priority.
• Choose Tata if payload, fuel range, and emissions compliance weigh heavier on your ledger.

For more articles and news, stay updated with 91trucks. Subscribe to our YouTube channel and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Linkedin for the latest videos and updates from the automotive world!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Which truck has better payload capacity – MAN CLA 31.300 or Tata Signa 3518.T?

Tata Signa 3518.T offers a higher payload capacity of 26,000 kg, compared to 14,230 kg of the MAN CLA 31.300.

Q2: Which truck is better for mining and rugged terrain?

MAN CLA 31.300 is more suitable for mining and hilly areas due to its 300 HP engine, 1,150 Nm torque, and 48% gradeability.

Q3: Which truck meets the latest emission norms?

Tata Signa 3518.T complies with the BS-VI emission norms, whereas the MAN CLA 31.300 meets BS-IV standards.

Q4: Which truck has better fuel tank capacity?

Tata Signa 3518.T has a 365-litre fuel tank, while the MAN CLA 31.300 comes with a 200-litre tank.

Q5: Which truck is more suitable for long-distance haulage?

Tata Signa 3518.T is more ideal for long-haul operations due to its larger fuel tank, higher payload, and BS-VI compliance.