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Some lift specs are quoted as the total amount a machine can lift, and some use the SAE J31 reporting system that quotes 87% of maximum lift."

Of course, specs only go so far. "Published specs are a reasonable way to get an ‘apples-to-apples' comparison of relative machine capacity.But they are not very good indicators of some of the more subjective factors that separate the best machines from the pack," says Hershberger. "Operator station comfort, ergonomics and hydraulic system performance are best understood during actual operation of the machine."

Published specs also don't reflect many important design elements. "For example, items like structure design, hose routings, serviceability, dealer support and factory parts distribution do not show up in a specs comparison," says Hershberger.

Fuel-efficient options

You may want to factor recent volatility in the fuel supply into your decision-making process. "Europe has been very concerned about fuel consumption for many years," says Eric Winkler, New Holland. "We are starting to see more of a trend here, especially in the United States, where people are looking at fuel consumption more than ever before."

Barth agrees, noting, "It hasn't reached the level that you might see in some European markets, but it is a concern. It is something people are starting to take note of."