Bobcat S185 vs Bobcat S530: Which Is the Better Value?
The Bobcat S185 averages $19,005 CAD at auction, compared to $21,999 for the Bobcat S530. That's a $2,993 difference. Power-wise, the S185 offers 61 HP versus the S530's 46 HP. The S185 has 1,850 lb rated operating capacity vs 1,500 lb for the S530. Based on 189 verified Canadian auction results tracked by TrackCheck, here's the full breakdown.
The Verdict
Both machines are competitively priced with only a $2,993 difference. Your decision should come down to brand preference, dealer proximity, and specific feature needs rather than price alone.
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 S530
SSL$21,999 CAD avg
$9,660
Low
$36,719
High
37
Sales
Avg 1,537 hours · 2013–2016 model years
Full price guide →How do S185 and S530 specs compare?
| Spec | Bobcat S185 | Bobcat S530 |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 61 hp | 46 hp |
| Rated Operating Capacity | 1,850 lbs | 1,500 lbs |
| Operating Weight | 6,220 lbs | 5,530 lbs |
| Lift Type | vertical | radial |
| Frame Size | mid | small |
| High Flow | 1 gpm | — |
What are the key differences between S185 and S530?
- Price: The S185 is $2,993 cheaper on average (14% savings).
- Power: The S185 has 15 more horsepower (61 HP vs 46 HP).
- Lifting Capacity: The S185 lifts 350 lbs more (1,850 lb ROC).
- Lift Type: S185 uses vertical lift while S530 uses radial lift.
- Usage: Used S185s average 3,957 hours while S530s average 1,537 hours.
Both Bobcat and Bobcat retain value well. See our depreciation guide for brand rankings.
Looking for a S185 or S530? Check current listings with Deal Scores.
Which is the better value: S185 or S530?
Choose the Bobcat S185 if:
- You want lower upfront cost ($2,993 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 S530 if:
- You prefer Bobcat's dealer network and parts availability
How do S185 and S530 prices compare by year?
| Year | Bobcat S185 | Bobcat S530 |
|---|---|---|
| 2016 | — | $31,128 (4) |
| 2015 | — | $20,379 (10) |
| 2014 | — | $20,086 (17) |
| 2013 | — | $24,032 (6) |
| 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 S530 prices compare by hours?
| Hours | Bobcat S185 | Bobcat S530 |
|---|---|---|
| 0-999 hrs | $28,162 (10) | $27,172 (6) |
| 1,000-1,999 hrs | $23,311 (18) | $23,873 (18) |
| 2,000-2,999 hrs | $21,210 (26) | $22,518 (5) |
| 3,000-3,999 hrs | $18,972 (28) | $14,102 (2) |
| 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 S530 in Canada?
Bobcat S185
None Bobcat S185
2,700 hrs · Abbotsford
$32,000 CAD
2004 Bobcat S185
2,764 hrs · Surrey
$20,900 CAD
2005 Bobcat S185
2,574 hrs · Ste-Agathe
$23,800 CAD
2009 Bobcat S185
540 hrs · Yorkton
$54,400 CAD
Bobcat S530
No active listings right now.
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