Bobcat S185 vs Bobcat S450: Which Is the Better Value?
The Bobcat S185 averages $19,005 CAD at auction, compared to $27,371 for the Bobcat S450. That's a $8,365 difference. Power-wise, the S185 offers 61 HP versus the S450's 46 HP. The S185 has 1,850 lb rated operating capacity vs 1,300 lb for the S450. Based on 167 verified Canadian auction results tracked by TrackCheck, here's the full breakdown.
The Verdict
The Bobcat S185 is the better value buy for most Canadian buyers, averaging $8,365 less than the S450. With similar specs, the price difference is hard to justify unless you have a strong brand preference.
Bobcat S185
SSL$19,005 CAD avg
$7,741
Low
$46,721
High
152
Sales
Avg 3,957 hours · 2002–2012 model years
Full price guide →Bobcat S450
SSL$27,371 CAD avg
$15,938
Low
$46,423
High
15
Sales
Avg 1,463 hours · 2014–2020 model years
Full price guide →How do S185 and S450 specs compare?
| Spec | Bobcat S185 | Bobcat S450 |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 61 hp | 46 hp |
| Rated Operating Capacity | 1,850 lbs | 1,300 lbs |
| Operating Weight | 6,220 lbs | 5,215 lbs |
| Lift Type | vertical | radial |
| Frame Size | mid | small |
| High Flow | 1 gpm | — |
What are the key differences between S185 and S450?
- Price: The S185 is $8,365 cheaper on average (31% savings).
- Power: The S185 has 15 more horsepower (61 HP vs 46 HP).
- Lifting Capacity: The S185 lifts 550 lbs more (1,850 lb ROC).
- Lift Type: S185 uses vertical lift while S450 uses radial lift.
- Usage: Used S185s average 3,957 hours while S450s average 1,463 hours.
Both Bobcat and Bobcat retain value well. See our depreciation guide for brand rankings.
Looking for a S185 or S450? Check current listings with Deal Scores.
Which is the better value: S185 or S450?
Choose the Bobcat S185 if:
- You want lower upfront cost ($8,365 savings)
- You need more power (61 HP)
- You need higher lifting capacity (1,850 lbs)
- You prefer Bobcat's dealer network and parts availability
Choose the Bobcat S450 if:
- You prefer Bobcat's dealer network and parts availability
How do S185 and S450 prices compare by year?
| Year | Bobcat S185 | Bobcat S450 |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 | — | $41,814 (4) |
| 2019 | — | $20,700 (1) |
| 2016 | — | $21,800 (4) |
| 2015 | — | $16,399 (2) |
| 2014 | — | $25,651 (4) |
| 2012 | $26,392 (12) | — |
| 2011 | $20,699 (14) | — |
| 2010 | $23,923 (12) | — |
| 2009 | $20,599 (4) | — |
| 2008 | $18,853 (24) | — |
| 2007 | $21,072 (8) | — |
| 2006 | $17,331 (10) | — |
| 2005 | $16,100 (34) | — |
| 2004 | $18,492 (12) | — |
| 2003 | $15,253 (8) | — |
| 2002 | $16,876 (12) | — |
Prices in CAD. Numbers in parentheses are sample size. Lower price highlighted.
How do S185 and S450 prices compare by hours?
| Hours | Bobcat S185 | Bobcat S450 |
|---|---|---|
| 0-999 hrs | $28,162 (10) | $45,602 (2) |
| 1,000-1,999 hrs | $23,311 (18) | $24,566 (13) |
| 2,000-2,999 hrs | $21,210 (26) | — |
| 3,000-3,999 hrs | $18,972 (28) | — |
| 4,000+ hrs | $15,565 (64) | — |
Hours matter more than age for resale value. See our hours vs age analysis.
Where can I buy a S185 or S450 in Canada?
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